The Department of Dermatology at Hamad Medical Corp (HMC) is launching about 15 sub-specialty services which will be introduced by the the end of August this year.

“Our department is undergoing a renovation. Once it is completed,most probably by the end of August, we will be starting several new services for various skin diseases. They include new therapies and services for many of the diseases such as vitiligo, posraisis, eczema among others," disclosed Dr Martin Steinhoff, professor and chair at the Department of Dermatology as well as the director of the Translational Research Institute HMC.

Dr Steinhoff was speaking to the media on Tuesday and highlighted the activities of his department as well as the services available.

He was accompanied by Dr Aisha al-Malki, specialist in dermatology, HMC.

“We are launching some new services in dermatology. We will have extensive laser treatment technologies after the renovation work is completed. We are also extending photo therapy services for patients,” said Dr Steinhoff.

“Several new technologies and treatment methods for various diseases have been developed of late. We want to bring all the latest services and facilities available in the US and Europe to Qatar,” continued the official.

According to Dr Steinhoff, the new therapies to be introduced are targeted ones.

“They don't have side effects like the old therapies. Old therapies had more of side effects as they killed more cells near the treatment spots. The targeted therapies affect only the cells that are affected by any of the diseases,” noted the official.

The Dermatology Department runs 22 clinics a day and treats about 400 patients.

“We are also launching new laser treatment and we will have six laser units when the services are introduced. Some of these new laser units have either already reached the centre or on the way. This will provide services which were not available so far," pointed Dr Steinhoff.

Dr al-Malki noted that the department has the least waiting period among all the HMC facilities.

“For most of the cases, we have very less waiting period and we sometimes allow patients to come on their own convenience. Some even come twice a week whenever it suits them,” she added.