Dr. Zelaikha Al Wahedi, Assistant Managing Director of Quality and Workforce Development at the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), affirmed that the 6th International Primary Health Care Conference (IPHCC)—held this year under the theme “Inspiring Tomorrow: The Power of Collaboration in Primary Health Care”—reflects Qatar’s leading position in advancing the health sector and strengthening its efficiency and sustainability.

She explained that the conference, held under the patronage of H.E. the Minister of Public Health, aligns with the national vision that places human health at the forefront of development priorities, and emphasizes the importance of building a healthcare system rooted in knowledge, prevention, and innovation.

Over 1,000 Experts and Specialists

Dr. Al Wahedi noted that this year’s conference welcomes more than 1,000 experts, academics, and healthcare practitioners from around the world, representing leading global research and medical institutions.

She added that such wide participation reflects the international trust PHCC enjoys as a pioneering scientific center and underscores the success of previous conference editions in establishing it as a global platform for scientific dialogue and the exchange of leading international experiences in primary healthcare.

Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies

She highlighted that the conference themes this year keep pace with the rapid global transformations in the health sector, focusing on artificial intelligence applications, innovation in medical education, and emerging technologies, and their role in enhancing healthcare efficiency and improving patient experience.

She affirmed that this approach aligns with Qatar’s digital transformation strategy in healthcare and PHCC’s efforts to integrate technology into daily medical practice to ensure comprehensive, high-quality care.

A Platform for Knowledge Exchange

Dr. Al Wahedi emphasized that the conference is not limited to scientific sessions, but also serves as a platform for strengthening cooperation and partnerships between local and international institutions in areas such as training, research, and capacity development.

She pointed out that through this conference, PHCC aims to reinforce the principle of teamwork and knowledge sharing as a key pillar for sustainable development in the health sector.

Conference Program

She added that the scientific program spans three consecutive days of specialized sessions bringing together local and international speakers and covering a wide range of contemporary health issues.

Main Conference Themes

Dr. Al Wahedi explained that the nine main themes address strategic topics, including: Translating Research into Primary Care Practice, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies in Primary Health Care, Sustaining Quality and Safety in Primary Health Care System, Healthcare Ethics and Law, Interprofessional Integration and Collaboration, Preventative Care for All, Primary Health Care of Priority Population Such as the Elderly, Children, and Women, and Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Primary Health Care.

Keynotes and Specialized Sessions

She noted that the conference will feature keynote lectures by prominent international speakers on the future of primary healthcare and collaborative efforts to enhance preventive services, alongside parallel sessions covering the latest clinical updates in family medicine, nursing, pharmacy, laboratory, radiology, nutrition, physiotherapy, and dentistry.

Empowering National Workforce

Dr. Al Wahedi emphasized that one of the conference’s main goals is to support PHCC’s efforts in developing and empowering national professionals across various healthcare and administrative disciplines.

She explained that the Workforce Development and Training Directorate places great importance on preparing healthcare professionals according to the latest international standards through accredited training programs and quality initiatives designed to shape the future leaders of primary healthcare.

“We firmly believe,” she said, “that investing in people is the most sustainable investment, and that developing our human resources forms the foundation upon which our present and future success is built.”

Continuing Education

Dr. Al Wahedi spoke about the importance of continuing medical education as one of the core themes of the conference, emphasizing that it is essential to ensure healthcare workers’ readiness to keep pace with future challenges and changes.

She explained that the scientific sessions will highlight the latest practices in health education and training, focusing on interactive learning, medical simulation, and applied research, noting that these approaches help reinforce knowledge and develop skills effectively and sustainably.

Research, Scientific Posters, and Student Participation

Dr. Al Wahedi stated that the conference will feature research presentations and scientific posters by physicians and healthcare professionals from within and outside PHCC, in addition to a special student session to present their research and share their vision of the future of medicine and healthcare.

Students will also participate in a scientific debate titled “Artificial Intelligence in Primary Health Care”, expressing their views on the future of the profession and their role in its development. She stressed that engaging youth in scientific events reflects PHCC’s commitment to empowering future generations in healthcare innovation.

International Collaboration and Closing Ceremony

Dr. Al Wahedi added that the conference will conclude with honoring participants and winners of research competitions, celebrating scientific excellence and innovation in primary healthcare. It will also highlight institutional and international collaborations with the participation of global institutions such as McGill University, the University of Kent, Sidra Medicine, Aspire, and Hamad Medical Corporation.

Innovation for the Future

Dr. Al Wahedi affirmed that the conference’s theme, “Inspiring Tomorrow: The Power of Collaboration in Primary Health Care,” embodies its core message of fostering creativity and teamwork to achieve a healthier future.

She noted that the event will serve as a launchpad for new ideas, research initiatives, and interprofessional collaboration, contributing to building a resilient and future-ready healthcare system.

She added that this major scientific event aligns with the National Health Strategy 2030, supporting its goals through continuous education, innovation, and health-sector integration.

Pride in the State’s Strong Support

In conclusion, Dr. Zelaikha Al Wahedi expressed her deep appreciation for the strong support PHCC receives from the State and the Ministry of Public Health, affirming that this support is the driving force behind the corporation’s continued success and corporate excellence.

She said: “The remarkable progress we witness today in the health sector is the result of a wise national vision that places people at the center of development. At the Primary Health Care Corporation, we are committed to being an active part of this journey by building qualified, innovative, and creative professionals and delivering the highest quality healthcare services to all members of society.”

She concluded by saying: “This conference is not merely a scientific event—it is a message of hope and collaboration toward a brighter, healthier future, one where human well-being remains at the heart of all we do, and where Qatar continues to stand as a global model in primary healthcare.”