The 2024 World Respiratory Care (RC) Week celebrations in Qatar were marked by a series of impactful events, highlighting the importance of respiratory care and recognizing key stakeholders contributing to advancing the field. The activities took place across three major institutions: Sidra Medicine, University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST), and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). These events collectively emphasized the growing significance of respiratory therapy in improving patient outcomes and promoting lung health in the region.

Recognition Ceremony at Sidra Medicine

The celebrations kicked off with a formal Recognition Ceremony at Sidra Medicine, where key contributors in the field of respiratory care were honored. Dr. Jithin Sreedharan, Assistant Professor and Head of the Respiratory Therapy Department at UDST, played an instrumental role in acknowledging the support and collaboration between Sidra Medicine and UDST. This event underscored the importance of strong academic-healthcare partnerships in driving forward innovative respiratory care practices.

In addition to the ceremony, an awareness campaign and display booth were set up by students from the UDST Respiratory Therapy Program. The booth showcased various aspects of respiratory care, offering educational materials and engaging activities for visitors. The initiative received excellent feedback from both healthcare providers and the public, further enhancing the community service aspect of the event. Many visitors expressed appreciation for the knowledge and dedication demonstrated by the students, highlighting the impactful role of such outreach efforts in raising awareness about respiratory health.

Lung Health Day at University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST)

One of the most vibrant events of the week was Lung Health Day, hosted by the Department of Respiratory Therapy at UDST campus. This event brought together over 700 attendees, including students, faculty, and members of the community, to raise awareness about the importance of lung health. The event featured educational booths, interactive sessions, and demonstrations led by more than 60 respiratory therapy students, showcasing their skills and knowledge. Topics such as smoking cessation, lung disease prevention, and respiratory therapy interventions were discussed. Attendees also had the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, such as lung function tests and simulations, promoting a deeper understanding of lung health.

This event served as a platform to educate the public, especially students and healthcare professionals, about respiratory diseases and preventive strategies, further enhancing the role of UDST as a leader in respiratory therapy education in the region.

Stakeholder Recognition at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC)

The celebrations culminated in a Stakeholder Recognition Program at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), where Dr. Jithin acknowledged the significant contributions of the Department of Respiratory Therapy at HMC in supporting the growth and development of the respiratory care field in Qatar. HMC has been a key stakeholder, providing clinical training and support to UDST’s respiratory therapy students. Their partnership has allowed students to gain hands-on experience in real-world clinical settings, further solidifying the critical role of collaboration between academia and healthcare providers. This event not only celebrated their efforts but also recognized the shared vision for advancing respiratory health across Qatar.

Conclusion

The World Respiratory Care Week 2024 celebrations in Qatar were a resounding success, demonstrating the collective efforts of academic institutions, healthcare providers, and the broader community in promoting respiratory health. The events at Sidra Medicine, UDST, and Hamad Medical Corporation highlighted the importance of collaboration, education, and recognition in the ongoing development of respiratory therapy in the country.

With growing awareness and continued support from key stakeholders, Qatar is set to further strengthen its role in advancing the field of respiratory care, both regionally and internationally.