Doha, Qatar – Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) National Centre for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) has achieved a significant advancement in its medical training capabilities. The NCCCR has been officially accredited as a Training Centre for the Arab Board in Medical Oncology, a first for Qatar, according to an announcement made this week. This recognition underscores HMC’s commitment to developing a highly skilled workforce in cancer care within the region.
The accreditation, granted by the Arab Board of Health Specialisations (ABHS), allows the NCCCR to host and oversee the Medical Oncology Fellowship Programme, providing specialized training to physicians from Qatar and other Arab nations. This development builds upon the centre’s previous 2016 accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education – International (ACGME-I), demonstrating continued progress in quality and standards. The initiative is expected to bolster cancer treatment expertise throughout the Arab world.
NCCCR Gains Landmark Medical Oncology Training Accreditation
The ABHS accreditation process is rigorous, evaluating institutions based on factors including infrastructure, faculty qualifications, training curriculum, and patient care quality. According to the ABHS website, the organization aims to harmonize medical specializations standards across the Arab region. The NCCCR’s successful completion of this process highlights its adherence to international best practices in oncology education and clinical service.
Strengthening Regional Cancer Care
This new training center will play a crucial role in addressing the growing need for specialized oncologists in the region. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that cancer cases are rising globally, with a particularly noticeable increase in developing countries. By providing a locally accessible, internationally recognized training program, the NCCCR aims to reduce the reliance on sending physicians abroad for fellowship training.
The program will focus on providing comprehensive training in all aspects of medical oncology, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and palliative care. It will also emphasize the importance of evidence-based medicine and clinical research. The NCCCR already has a strong research portfolio, and this accreditation is expected to further enhance its contributions to the field of cancer research.
Impact on Qatar’s Healthcare System
The establishment of an ABHS-accredited oncology fellowship program aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which prioritizes the development of a world-class healthcare system. The initiative will contribute to the nation’s goal of providing accessible, high-quality cancer care to all residents. Additionally, it will attract talented medical professionals to Qatar, fostering innovation and collaboration.
HMC has been steadily expanding its cancer care services in recent years, investing in state-of-the-art technology and recruiting leading experts in the field. This accreditation is a natural progression of that investment, solidifying the NCCCR’s position as a regional hub for specialized medical care. The center’s existing ACGME-I accreditation has already proven beneficial in attracting and retaining qualified staff.
The NCCCR acknowledged the collaborative effort of its teams in achieving this milestone, emphasizing the dedication required to meet the stringent ABHS standards. The corporation has not yet announced specific details regarding the application process or the number of fellowship positions available. However, officials indicate that the program is expected to begin accepting applications in the coming months.
Looking ahead, the NCCCR will focus on establishing the infrastructure and curriculum necessary to launch the fellowship program successfully. The timeline for the first cohort of fellows remains uncertain, pending final approvals and resource allocation. Stakeholders will be watching for further announcements regarding program details and the long-term impact on cancer care capacity in Qatar and the wider Arab region.
The Arab Board of Health Specialisations website provides further information on its accreditation standards and programs.
Hamad Medical Corporation continues to expand its services and training programs to meet the evolving healthcare needs of Qatar.
