File photo
Doha, Qatar: As part of its commitment to enhancing the safety of older patients and ensuring continuity of healthcare services, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has announced a major expansion of its Post-Discharge Follow-Up Program for older acute care patients. The number of patients benefiting from the program increased from 658 patients in 2023 to 1,200 patients in 2025, representing a growth of more than 80 percent.
This program aims to ensure a safe and smooth transition from hospital to home. Follow-up calls are made within 48 hours of hospital discharge by case managers and geriatric specialists to assess patients' health, ensure access to medication, confirm adherence to the treatment plan, reassure patients and caregivers, and respond early to any medical concerns.
The program was launched at Rumailah Hospital in April 2020. More than 3,250 older patients with acute conditions benefited from the program's follow-up calls at Rumailah Hospital between April 2020 and December 2024. In 2025, the service expanded to include all acute older patients from Al Wakra Hospital, Medical Care and Research Center, and the National Center for Cancer Care and Research. In the first ten months of this service expansion, over 1,200 additional patients were supported.
The initiative reflects strong collaboration between the various care teams at HMC. By maintaining contact after discharge, the program helps ensure older patients continue to receive guidance and rapid access to clinical support when required.
The Post-Discharge Virtual Communication Program is one of HMC's key initiatives to strengthen continuity of care for older people and enhance patient experience throughout recovery at home. As demand for geriatric services continues to grow, follow-up support remains an important part of helping patients stay safe and informed after being discharged from hospital.