Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar University (QU), in partnership with the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS), successfully concluded the fifth Middle East Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Camp. Hosted for the first time in Qatar, the event brought together 175 specialists from 27 countries.
The camp’s two-day programme was divided into two specialised tracks: the Medical Track, focusing on motor and non-motor symptom management, advanced therapies, and hands-on workshops, including the use of Botulinum Toxin; and the Rehabilitation Track, designed to enhance the clinical capacity of healthcare professionals through interactive workshops and the application of evidence-based rehabilitation techniques. Both tracks aimed to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among healthcare professionals, researchers, and educators in the field of movement disorders.
Prof Hanan Khalil, a faculty member at QU, led the organising committee, the majority of whom were also members of QU. The camp highlights QU’s pivotal role in advancing health education and research in Qatar and the region. The event was also supported by the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) office of QU, ensuring participants benefit from high-quality, accredited learning opportunities.
The event also recognised the significant contributions of Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). HMC’s role was exemplified through the participation of its distinguished speakers and members of the organising committee, who brought invaluable expertise and insights to the programme.
Notably, Dr Hanadi Al Hamad, deputy chief for Long Term Care, Rehabilitation, Home care Services, Geriatric Care and Lead of Corporate Rehabilitation Services, Special Education and Social Services, was prominently featured, underscoring her leadership and dedication to advancing care for patients with long term conditions.
The collaboration with HMC reinforced the event’s comprehensive approach to fostering interdisciplinary knowledge exchange and improving patient outcomes.
Dr Hanadi Al Hamad expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “I am honoured to serve as Guest of Honour for this important event that highlights the critical advancements in movement disorder care. Events like these not only enhance professional knowledge but also strengthen collaborative efforts to improve the quality of life for patients across the region.”
This year’s camp featured a distinguished roster of international, regional, and local experts who presented the latest developments in Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. Attendees received the unique opportunity to engage with these thought-leaders and gain insights into innovative approaches that can transform patient care in the Middle East.
Prof Hanan Abdul Rahim, dean of the College of Health Sciences at QU, emphasised the importance of this collaboration: “This collaboration between MDS and the College of Health Sciences at QU presents a unique opportunity to advance our understanding of Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders, particularly within the context of the Middle East. By joining forces, we can leverage our respective expertise, resources, and networks to create a meaningful impact in the field of movement disorders and improve patient care in our region.”
Dr Linzette Morris, head of the Rehabilitation Sciences Department at QU, added: “Hosting the MDS Middle East Camp underscores QU’s commitment to leading health education and research initiatives in the region. This event serves as a critical platform for interdisciplinary learning, enabling healthcare professionals to apply cutting-edge rehabilitation practices that can greatly enhance patient outcomes.”
Prof Hanan Khalil highlighted the camp’s significance, stating, “The MDS Middle East Camp is more than an educational event; it is a cornerstone for fostering international collaboration and building clinical expertise in the region. By hosting this camp in Qatar for the first time, we aim to inspire meaningful advancements in movement disorder care and empower healthcare professionals with the tools they need to make a difference.”
The 5th MDS Middle East Camp not only underscored QU’s leadership in general and the College of Health Sciences in particular in health education but also its commitment to advancing research and clinical practice in collaboration with global organisations.
This event marked a significant milestone in Qatar’s efforts to improve the lives of patients with movement disorders across the region.
