Doha: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), in collaboration with Hamad Bin Khalifa University, has launched the assessment phase of the National Survey on Developmental Disabilities Diagnostics and Interventions in the State of Qatar. This initiative marks a significant step towards improving the diagnostic and intervention services available for individuals with developmental disabilities across the country.
According to Qatar News Agency, the launch event saw the participation of representatives from major healthcare institutions, hospitals, and centers. These entities are pivotal in providing diagnostic and intervention services nationwide. The project's main objective is to deliver a comprehensive assessment of the current services, pinpoint strengths, and identify opportunities for enhancement. This effort aims to improve service quality and accessibility for those with developmental disabilities.
The survey will span a year, covering around 70 healthcare facilities in Qatar, including hospitals, health centers, clinics, and specialized treatment centers. During the event, Dr. Salma Khalaf Al Kaabi, the advisor of the minister of public health and national lead for the autism action plan, emphasized the project's importance in aligning Qatar's developmental disability services with international best practices. She urged healthcare providers and institutions to actively engage in the survey for accurate data collection, which is crucial for assessing current service status.
Dr. Al Kaabi highlighted that the survey findings would support evidence-informed decision-making, helping identify gaps and challenges in existing services. This will facilitate the development and implementation of effective national strategies for improving diagnostic and intervention services, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities and promoting their inclusion in society.
The survey encompasses a range of developmental disabilities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Intellectual Developmental Disorders, Speech and Language Disorders, Learning Disorders, Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Stereotypic Movement Disorder.