Hanane Djoua
Doha
In the heart of Hamad Bin Khalifa Medical City stands a beacon of hope and innovation: the Qatar Rehabilitation Institute (QRI). As the country’s only specialist rehabilitation hospital, QRI has solidified its reputation as a leader in advanced, patient-centred rehabilitation, both regionally and globally.
At a media tour hosted on January 20, QRI opened its doors to showcase its cutting-edge facilities and world-class services, which are at the forefront of its new initiative, Your Health, Our Priority. This campaign underscores QRI’s commitment to empowering patients to regain independence and improve their
quality of life.
Comprehensive Care for Every Stage of Recovery
QRI is designed to support individuals of all ages and stages of recovery. Its holistic approach encompasses inpatient, day care, outpatient, and community-based rehabilitation.
Dr Hanadi Al Hamad, deputy chief for Long-Term Care, Rehabilitation, and Geriatric Care, emphasised the institute’s dedication to meeting the unique needs of every patient.
"Through the Your Health, Our Priority campaign, we are reaffirming our promise to patients and the community,” Dr Hamad said. "We aim to offer the highest level of care, utilising the latest in rehabilitation technology and providing tailored programmes that cater to each patient’s journey to recovery.”
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Precision Rehabilitation
Walking through QRI’s state-of-the-art facility, it is evident that technology and innovation drive its success. Equipped with robotic labs, anti-gravity rehabilitation systems, aquatic therapy pools, immersive recreational rooms, and real-life simulation labs, QRI is redefining rehabilitation standards.
One of the standout features is the Precision Rehabilitation programme, a data-driven approach that tailors treatments to each patient. By leveraging advanced analytics, this programme tracks progress in real time, enabling clinicians to make informed adjustments to maximise recovery outcomes.
Zvjezdana Zafa, coordinator at QRI, explained the meticulous structure of the facility during the tour. "Today, we’ll visit the STEPS clinic, Easy Street, the Gait Lab, and the Lymphedema unit — each a testament to our commitment to advanced rehabilitation.”
The STEPS clinic, Zafa noted, specialises in outpatient care for elderly patients with musculoskeletal issues. Easy Street, a unique simulation space, prepares patients for reintegration into daily life, teaching essential skills like navigating ramps, using ATMs, and boarding vehicles. The Gait Lab employs cutting-edge technology to analyse walking patterns and provide customised therapies for mobility challenges, while the Lymphedema unit focuses on treating lymphatic drainage issues.
Rehabilitation Beyond the Walls
QRI’s influence extends beyond its physical facilities. The Community Rehabilitation Framework ensures patients receive seamless care in their living environments. A dedicated team of therapists visits patients at home, delivering intensive therapy and even bringing mobile gyms to support their recovery.
Dr Ajimsha Mohammed Sharafudeen, director of Rehabilitation Services, highlighted the importance of continuity in care.
"Rehabilitation begins as early as 24 to 48 hours after a stroke or injury, even in the ICU. This early intervention significantly improves recovery outcomes,” he said.
Dr Sharafudeen detailed the institute’s robust inpatient programme, which boasts 160 beds across five floors, including a dedicated paediatric floor. Patients receive up to 5.5 hours of therapy daily — well above the global benchmark of 3.5 hours. After completing inpatient care, patients transition to day rehabilitation or outpatient services, with specialised clinics addressing neurological, musculoskeletal, and paediatric needs.
Mental Health and Holistic Well-Being
Recognising the psychological toll of conditions like strokes and spinal cord injuries, QRI integrates mental health support into its rehabilitation programmes. Psychologists and social workers work closely with patients, offering group therapy, recreational activities, and functional outings to combat isolation and
anxiety.
"Rehabilitation is not just physical,” Dr Sharafudeen said. "It’s about restoring confidence, community engagement, and quality of life.”
The institute’s healing gardens, recreational spaces, and community outings further underscore its commitment to holistic care. Patients practice real-world skills in controlled environments, such as shopping at malls or navigating public transportation, to ensure they are fully prepared for reintegration.
Global Collaboration and Future Vision
Beyond clinical care, QRI is advancing the field of rehabilitation through research, education, and global partnerships. Collaborating with institutions like the World Health Organization, QRI integrates the latest evidence-based practices into its services.
Looking ahead, the institute is poised to revolutionise care with tele-rehabilitation, enabling remote therapy coordination and monitoring.
"By 2030, the demand for rehabilitation will grow exponentially,” Dr Sharafudeen noted. "Tele-rehabilitation will ensure continuous care for patients, even beyond hospital walls.”
A Model for Excellence
Serving over 1,500 inpatients and thousands of outpatients annually, QRI operates at a pace few institutions can match. With extended hours and high-demand clinics, the institute is a lifeline for Qatar’s growing population.
Dr Hamad aptly summarised, "QRI’s mission is to set the global standard for rehabilitation care. We are here to ensure every patient receives the best possible support on their journey to recovery.”