Middle East Federation of Middle East Federation of
Middle East Federation of Organization of Medical Physics
Middle East Federation of Organizations of Medical Physics

IAEA's QUAADRIL Mission Enhances Radiology Services Across Qatar's Healthcare System


A Quality Assurance Audit for Diagnostic Radiology Improvement and Learning (QUAADRIL) mission by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has concluded a week-long visit to Qatar (January 19-25, 2025). Uniquely, this QUAADRIL mission adopted a comprehensive national approach, assessing multiple healthcare facilities within the Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Qatar's principal public healthcare provider, ensuring widespread impact and benefits for a large portion of the population. The expert team consisted of Dr. Virginia Tsapaki (IAEA), Dr. Sasa Vujnovic (Bosnia), and Dr. Dimitris Katsifarakis (Greece).



By focusing on HMC, the IAEA's QUAADRIL mission achieved a national impact on radiology services. Evaluating several HMC hospitals simultaneously ensured that improvements and recommendations would reach a wider patient base. This approach underscored Qatar's commitment to enhancing healthcare access and quality across the country.

The IAEA experts employed the QUAADRIL methodology, a thorough review encompassing key aspects of radiology services:

  • Equipment Performance: Verification that imaging equipment adheres to international safety and quality standards.
  • Clinical Protocols: Evaluation of the appropriateness and effectiveness of imaging procedures.
  • Radiation Protection: Assessment of measures to minimize radiation exposure for both patients and staff.
  • Staff Training and Qualifications: Review of the competency and qualifications of radiology personnel.

The mission's findings will enable HMC hospitals to:

  • Optimize Imaging Procedures: Reduce unnecessary radiation exposure while maintaining diagnostic accuracy, enhancing patient safety.
  • Enhance Image Quality: Improve diagnostic accuracy and facilitate better treatment planning, leading to improved patient outcomes.
  • Strengthen Radiation Safety Practices: Implement robust measures to protect both patients and healthcare workers from radiation risks.

The visit, approved by HMC, was inaugurated by Dr. Amal Al ObaidliChairperson of the Clinical Imaging Department.

"We are proud to announce the successful completion of the IAEA’s QUAADRIL visit. This achievement reflects the dedication of our entire clinical imaging team, as well as the exceptional support from Hamad Medical Corporation in ensuring that we continuously meet and exceed the highest standards in Clinical imaging. This accomplishment not only enhances our organization’s capabilities but also underscores our commitment to providing the safest and most accurate diagnostic services to our patients," said Dr. Amal Al Obaidli, Chairperson of Clinical Imaging Department-HMC.

"By being part of the QUAADRIL program, we are not just improving our technical and clinical capabilities, but we are also contributing to the global advancement of medical imaging practices. We are committed to continuous improvement, and this mission has been an invaluable learning experience for all of us," Dr. Al Obaidly added.

" The road to the successful completion of the QUAADRIL visit was paved with months of preparation by a dedicated team. To be ready for the QUAADRIL audit, our team worked tirelessly behind the scenes, conducting training sessions, detailed in-house audit, reviews of all imaging protocols, policies, pathways and quality assurance processes," said Dr. Maryam Al-Kuwari, lead of QUAADRIL project. "We also made sure our technology was up to date, meeting the IAEA's stringent standards. This involved coordinating with different levels of staff and sections to ensure that every component of the imaging department was operating at its highest international standard. “She added with thanks to all staff.

OHS was one of the major counterparts of this audit by coordinating all the activities under the direction of Dr. Hassan Kharita, AED OHS.

“This mission also represents a significant step within the framework of Practical Arrangements with the IAEA, aiming to recognize HMC as an Anchor Center within the IAEA's Rays of Hope initiative. This initiative focuses on expanding access to diagnostic radiology, radiotherapy and nuclear medicine globally. Qatar’s participation highlights its dedication to global health and its role as a regional leader in advanced medical care” said Dr. Hassan Kharita.

Dr.Abdullah Al Ansari, Chief Medical officer of HMC complimented the new initiatives and said “Qatar's engagement with the IAEA through the QUAADRIL mission underscores its commitment to continuous improvement in healthcare quality and safety. Implementing the IAEA's recommendations will further elevate HMC's radiology services, ensuring optimal patient care nationwide. The journey doesn't stop here—it's an ongoing commitment to excellence.”

 


January 27th 2025
mefomp reporter



              


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