Qatar's Shura Council Examines Health Strategy and Digital Innovations

During its weekly meeting in Doha, Qatar's Shura Council reviewed the National Health Strategy for 2024-2030, emphasizing the need for enhanced preventive healthcare, improved patient services, and a faster digital transformation in the health sector.

HE Speaker Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim chaired the session, attended by HE Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud and senior health ministry officials. The meeting highlighted the strategic goals and implementation plans set forth by the government.

At the outset, the council condemned a recent drone attack on a commercial ship within Qatar's territorial waters, labeling it a significant risk to maritime security and regional stability.

Members expressed concern that assaults on commercial shipping lanes could adversely affect international trade and global supply chains, urging adherence to international laws and the right to free navigation.

HE Al Ghanim commended Qatar’s leadership for its ongoing commitment to improve the healthcare sector, under the guidance of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. He noted that the National Health Strategy aligns with the nation’s broader vision for enhancing quality of life and establishing an advanced healthcare system.

The Minister of Public Health outlined three primary focus areas of the strategy: promoting public health and wellbeing, enhancing patient experiences and services, and increasing the resilience and efficiency of healthcare systems.

HE Al Mahmoud highlighted initiatives aimed at combating non-communicable diseases such as obesity and diabetes through awareness campaigns, preventive measures, and early screening programs.

He further noted ongoing advancements in the national health insurance framework, healthcare financing improvements, and strengthening partnerships between public and private healthcare sectors.

Plans are also in place to broaden mental health services, enhance emergency preparedness, and expedite digital changes using integrated health data systems and AI technologies in healthcare.

Shura Council members emphasized the critical need to reduce wait times for medical appointments and enhance access to healthcare services while reinforcing primary and preventive care across the nation.

They advocated for increased funding in medical research and innovation and stronger mental health awareness initiatives, particularly aimed at younger populations.

At the conclusion of the meeting, a draft law concerning petrol station regulation was directed to the Economic and Financial Affairs Committee for in-depth analysis.

HE Al Ghanim also informed members about the Shura Council delegation's participation in the Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly summit in Montenegro, where discussions centered around parliamentary diplomacy, democratic resilience, and global cooperation.

During the summit, he underscored the importance of fostering dialogue and collaboration among parliaments to tackle both regional and global challenges.