Doha

National Health Insurance Company (NHIC) announced the launch of the annual health check-up for members of Seha.

The new service will be provided to all Qatari nationals aged 18 years or above.

The annual health check-up of Seha, the national health insurance scheme, is developed using the “most up-to-date scientific evidence from international and local best practices”, according to a statement from NHIC. “Members will be able to leave with a better understanding of their health, steps to improve if needed and become better informed and in control of their own health.”

The annual health check-up consists of two parts: behavioural tests and physical tests.

Behavioural tests provide members with the opportunity to share extensive information on their medical background. This information is then shared with the physician and supports development of a “unique and comprehensive” care plan for each member.

“The questions in this section are very thorough and cover areas such as self-reporting on health status and risk factors, including smoking, exercise, diet, mental health, personal and family medical history, and preventive screening. It is important for members to thoroughly and carefully complete the behavioural tests,” the statement explains.

The physical tests are completed by the physician and nurse who will collect the key biometric parameters, including weight, body mass index, waist size, heart rate and standardised blood pressure. The physical test will also include basic laboratory tests, including fasting serum glucose, lipid profile and haemoglobin A1C.

According to the results of both mentioned tests, the physician might order additional tests, radiology or refer the patient to a specialist if needed.

NHIC has stressed the importance of early detection, followed by treatment and regular follow-up as it lowers the risk of potential complications. “It is, therefore, important for members of Seha to get checked even if they feel perfectly healthy. This service comes to establish the concept of preventive healthcare among the nationals, which helps in building healthier generations and developing the healthcare sector in line with the National Health Strategy,” the statement adds.

Seha’s coverage includes both in-patient and out-patient services, including preventive care, emergency treatment, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, long-term care, radiology, ophthalmology, laboratory testing and prescription medicines as well as dental and optical services.

In order for the member to get the medical service, the Qatari ID must be presented upon visiting the service provider in addition to updating Unwani (address details).

Information and updates on the scheme are available on the Seha website, www.seha.qa, and through social media at facebook.com/SehaQatar and twitter.com/SehaQatar Members can also call the Seha call centre on the toll-free number, 8008800, or visit the customer care centre on the sixth floor of Amwal Tower in West Bay, Doha.