The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) is observing Qatar Family Day, marked annually on April 15, as a national event that underscores the importance of the family as the core unit of society and a key pillar of social stability and cohesion.

The occasion places particular emphasis on raising health awareness among family members and highlighting the central role played by family physicians in supporting a healthy, balanced, and sustainable way of life for individuals and communities.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Fathiya Mohammad Al Meer, Senior Consultant in Family Medicine and Regional Director of Operations – Central at PHCC, said that Qatar Family Day provides a valuable platform for strengthening direct engagement with the community. She noted that the celebration supports the promotion of preventive healthcare and encourages the public to make full use of the comprehensive services and programmes offered by PHCC.

Dr. Al Meer explained that a strong and united family is the foundation of a healthy society, adding that family health care is not limited to treatment alone. Instead, it encompasses preventive care, health education, psychological support, and social wellbeing, delivered through an integrated family medicine model that serves individuals across all age groups.

She stressed that family physicians form the backbone of the primary healthcare system, bringing broad clinical expertise that enables them to address a wide spectrum of health needs, including physical, psychological, and behavioural conditions. Family physicians also play a vital role in the early detection of diseases, long-term management of chronic illnesses, and coordination with specialist services to ensure continuity and quality of care.

Dr. Al Meer added that the strength of family medicine lies in the enduring relationship between physicians and patients, built on trust, ongoing follow-up, and a deep understanding of patients’ medical histories and family contexts. This relationship, she noted, contributes significantly to improved healthcare outcomes and enhanced community health.

PHCC confirmed that family medicine services are available throughout the week at all its health centres. Patients can access medical consultations, routine follow-ups, and a range of preventive and health education programmes. Support and information are also available through the “Hayyak” customer service or by calling the hotline 107.