In a landmark step toward advancing Qatar’s healthcare system, the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), has launched the Family Medicine Certificate Program, which aims to prepare a new generation of family physicians qualified to provide comprehensive community healthcare.

The program commenced on September 1, 2025, welcoming its first cohort of 15 medical graduates from among the children of residents. It will run for a full year on a full-time basis. The program emphasizes building a strong scientific and practical foundation through intensive clinical training, evidence-based practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Voices From the Heart of the Initiative

Dr. Zelaikha Al Wahedi, Assistant Managing Director of Quality and Workforce Development at PHCC, said: “The Family Medicine Certificate Program has come to fill a real gap in the training pathway for young doctors. We are working to equip them with the tools necessary to become family physicians capable of serving the community with efficiency and high quality.”

For her part, Dr. Hanan Al Mujalli, Executive Director of Clinical Affairs at PHCC, said that this program reflects the strategic direction of the State of Qatar toward strengthening primary healthcare. “It is a long-term investment in community health. Graduates will contribute to early disease detection, prevention, and health promotion.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Muna Taher Aseel expressed her enthusiasm, saying: “We are delighted to welcome the first batch of doctors to this pioneering national program. Our role is to support them academically and clinically, so they are fully prepared to meet the medical challenges facing community.”

Dr. Khalid Al Karbi emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying: “The launch of this program represents a strategic step in building qualified national cadres in family medicine. We believe that investing in hands-on training and evidence-based practice is the optimal path toward a resilient and integrated healthcare system.”

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Dr. Weam expressed her gratitude: “On behalf of my colleagues, I would like to express our great joy at this opportunity that came just in time, when it almost slipped away from us. This program is a window of hope for our career path, and we pledge to invest everything we learn in serving the community and its health.”

Toward a Sustainable Health Future

PHCC and MoPH affirmed that this program constitutes a cornerstone in building the future of healthcare in Qatar. They expressed deep gratitude to all who contributed to turning this initiative into reality—partners, faculty members, and supporters—whose dedication had the greatest impact on launching this educational and transformative path in family medicine.