Doha, Qatar – Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has once again demonstrated its dedication to world-class healthcare, successfully achieving reaccreditation from the Joint Commission International (JCI) for its long-term care services. The comprehensive survey, completed in October 2024, encompassed HMC’s Long-Term Care facilities, including the Enaya and Daam Specialised Care Centre and the Residential Care Compound-1. This is the fourth time HMC’s long-term care programs have earned the prestigious JCI designation.
The reaccreditation confirms HMC’s commitment to providing safe, effective, and patient-centered care for individuals requiring prolonged medical attention. These specialized centers, unique within Qatar, deliver 24/7 care and rehabilitation to patients with complex and chronic health conditions. The accreditation process is rigorous, evaluating all facets of patient care and organizational operations.
The Significance of JCI Accreditation in Long-Term Care
The Joint Commission International is a US-based non-profit organization that evaluates and accredits healthcare organizations globally. JCI accreditation represents the gold standard in international hospital accreditation, signifying a commitment to meeting and exceeding globally-recognized quality and safety standards. For Hamad Medical Corporation, this ongoing achievement is critical as Qatar’s population ages and the demand for specialized long-term care increases.
What the Accreditation Process Entails
The JCI survey involves a thorough review of a healthcare organization’s compliance with JCI standards, covering areas such as patient safety, infection control, medication management, and staff qualifications. This includes on-site observations, interviews with patients and staff, and detailed documentation review. Preparing for and successfully completing the survey requires substantial effort and a sustained commitment to quality improvement.
According to HMC officials, the reaccreditation was a team effort involving clinicians, administrators, and support staff across all three facilities. A key focus leading up to the survey was enhancing documentation processes to demonstrate consistent adherence to JCI standards, as well as ongoing training for staff in areas like advanced cardiac life support and infection prevention.
The Enaya and Daam Specialised Care Centre specifically focuses on patients requiring advanced respiratory support, neurological rehabilitation, and specialized medical management. Meanwhile, the Residential Care Compound-1 provides a home-like environment for patients needing ongoing, but less intensive, medical attention. Both centers play a vital role in relieving pressure on acute care facilities within HMC, ensuring that hospital beds are available for those with urgent medical needs. The availability of continuous care is a crucial factor in population health management.
However, maintaining JCI accreditation is not a one-time event. It requires continuous monitoring, evaluation, and improvement to ensure that standards are consistently met. HMC has implemented robust quality management systems to proactively identify and address potential areas of concern, preventing issues before they impact patient care.
This latest accreditation follows a broader initiative by the Ministry of Public Health to elevate healthcare standards across Qatar. The ministry has been actively promoting the adoption of international best practices and investing in the training and development of healthcare professionals. This strategic approach has the intention of positioning Qatar as a regional leader in medical tourism and healthcare innovation.
The benefits of JCI accreditation extend beyond simply meeting external standards. The process encourages a culture of safety and quality within the organization, leading to improved patient outcomes and increased staff satisfaction. Additionally, it enhances HMC’s reputation as a provider of high-quality, internationally-recognized healthcare services, and rehabilitation care.
HMC is expected to undergo another JCI survey in approximately three years to maintain its accreditation status. Future surveys will likely place increased emphasis on areas such as patient engagement, data analytics, and the integration of technology to improve care delivery. Observing how HMC adapts to these evolving expectations will be a key indicator of its continued commitment to excellence in long-term care.
