Qatar Launches First Oral Health Symposium

• Qatar hosts its first national symposium on oral and dental health, “Towards Excellence in Oral and Dental Health.”
• The event supports the National Plan for Oral and Dental Health under the Third National Health Strategy (2024-2030).
• Over 150 representatives from public and private sectors attended, with virtual sessions reaching 5,900 dental professionals.
• Topics included oral health management, elderly care, disease prevention, and integrating oral health into broader healthcare services.
• A consultation session aimed to create a strategic roadmap for future oral health governance and service delivery.
• Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani highlighted decade-long advancements in oral healthcare infrastructure and awareness programs.

Qatar Hosts Inaugural Symposium on Advancing Oral and Dental Health

QATAR: The Ministry of Public Health has organized the nation’s first symposium dedicated to oral and dental health, titled “Towards Excellence in Oral and Dental Health.” This landmark event aligns with the objectives of the Third National Health Strategy for 2024-2030, aiming to bolster the National Plan for Oral and Dental Health. According to an article published on The Peninsula Qatar, the symposium sought to enhance policies, foster innovation, and improve collaboration among stakeholders to elevate oral healthcare services nationwide.

Strengthening Oral Health Policies and Collaboration

The symposium brought together over 150 senior and middle management representatives from both public and private dental sectors. Discussions focused on critical issues such as promoting oral healthcare through general dentistry principles, developing strategic frameworks for oral health management, and addressing challenges faced by specific demographics like the elderly.

One notable virtual session on oral and dental health indicators drew participation from more than 5,900 professionals across various dental specialties. Presented by experts from the Ministry of Public Health, Hamad Medical Corporation, and the Primary Health Care Corporation, the session covered topics ranging from managing dental injuries to addressing gum health needs and orthodontic treatment.

Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani, Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention Programs Department at the Ministry of Public Health, emphasized the progress made in recent years. He stated, “Over the past decade, health institutions in the State of Qatar that provide oral and dental care services have experienced significant development and increased attention.”

Addressing Oral Health Challenges Among Senior Citizens

A dedicated workshop was held on the second day to address the unique oral health challenges faced by senior citizens. Participants explored strategies to integrate oral healthcare for older adults with other health services, ensuring access to comprehensive and coordinated care. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the evolving healthcare needs of Qatar’s aging population.

The third day featured interactive discussions and research presentations involving key stakeholders, including academic institutions like Qatar University and Doha University of Science and Technology, alongside organizations such as Aspetar and the Ministry of Interior. These sessions reviewed achievements in Qatar’s oral and dental healthcare sector over the past decade, highlighting advancements in specialized clinics and early detection of conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.

Strategic Roadmap for Future Oral Health Governance

On the final day, a consultation session engaged policymakers and experts to draft a strategic roadmap for oral health governance. The session focused on integrating policies and enhancing the delivery of future oral and dental care services. Such efforts are expected to strengthen the framework for sustainable oral healthcare practices in Qatar.

Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani further elaborated on the importance of cross-sectoral cooperation, saying, “The Ministry of Public Health has emphasised the importance of enhancing cooperation across various sectors in the country to provide comprehensive oral health care services.”

To support these goals, the Ministry periodically organizes national awareness campaigns in collaboration with partners. Since 2019, it has implemented annual campaigns targeting oral and dental health while launching programs aimed at educating all segments of society. Additionally, the Ministry recently completed its third national oral and dental health survey, examining over 1,700 students aged 12 to 16 from 55 schools across Qatar.

A Step Forward in Comprehensive Oral Healthcare

The symposium underscores Qatar’s dedication to advancing oral and dental healthcare through policy reforms, research, and community engagement. By fostering collaboration between public and private entities, the event laid the groundwork for improved oral health outcomes and equitable access to care for all residents.

As Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Hamad Al Thani noted, this effort is part of a broader vision to ensure that oral healthcare remains a priority within Qatar’s overall health strategy. With continued focus on innovation and inclusivity, the symposium marks a pivotal step toward achieving excellence in oral and dental health nationwide.