The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has awarded QR1bn ($274m) worth of contracts for the construction of six new healthcare facilities.

The schemes include five new health centres in Al-Khor, Al-Wakra, Al-Sadd, Al-Mashaf and Ain Khalid; as well as a building for the National Health Laboratories.

The local contractors awarded include:

• Al-Sorayi Group for Trading & Contracting
• Al-Tawfeek & Partners for Contracting
• Al-Madar

Another four health centres are under design, according to Ashghal president Saad bin Ahmad al-Muhannadi. These are located in Madinat Khalifa South, Umm Ghuwailina, Al-Thamid and Nuaija.

Al-Muhannadi said implementation of these centres would commence in coordination with the Public Health Ministry.

MEED understands Ashghal has implemented 24 healthcare buildings and facilities since 2004.

In 2015, MEED reported that Qatar plans to develop 50 to 70 medical centres over a 10-year period reflecting a new focus on smaller facilities rather than big hospitals.