The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) is continuously supporting developing integrated pathways for people suffering from Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Since 2012, PHCC has been fully involved in the screening for ASD. PHCC has developed two cycles of screenings for ASD to be done for all babies that visit PHCC Well-Baby Clinic by the age of 18 months and the 30 months.
In Qatar, and worldwide, awareness of ASD is increasing, and so are the numbers of children and adults being diagnosed.
“We are honoured to be a part of this national collaborative leadership to develop and implement a national strategy for high standard services targeting people with autism spectrum disorder in Qatar. This will be done through raising awareness, promoting the utilisation of screening and early identification services, referral to appropriate care and high quality research for achieving optimal health outcomes across the lifespan,” said Dr Sadriya al-Kohji, head, Child and Adolescent Department, PHCC.
“PHCC will provide community based services which are individual – centred, safe and efficient toward achieving national goals and add great value to patient care across Qatar,” she added.
In addition, PHCC works very closely with Hamad Medical Corporation for the early diagnosis and detection of ASD. Children identified as ‘at risk’ of developing ASD at PHCC Level are referred to the Child Development Centre at Rumailah hospital.
During National Autism Awareness Month, PHCC is hosting a series of activities to engage the public in taking action to support people on the spectrum. This year, PHCC wishes to expand awareness towards a full acceptance and inclusion of people suffering from Autism.
At Qatar autism event, held at Al Shaqab Arena, recently PHCC professionals were at hand  sharing useful information and consultative advice about autism and autism-specialised services to advise the community about resources available to individuals and families living with ASD.
PHCC will hold lectures on autism awareness at Al Thumama and Rawdat Al Khail health centres led by Dr Madeeha Kamal, a senior paediatric consultant. Through its school health programme initiative, PHCC will take the opportunity to educate students about autism.