Dr. Khalid Taib, chairman of Shifa, extended his thanks to the minister for attending the opening ceremony and considered the step a new development in the charity and volunteering sectors. Taib added that the center is the first of its kind in the Kingdom.

“Many poor patients need care and attention. They need support and financial aid and it is for this reason we started this initiative,” he said.

The center, he said, has eight sections each providing different services. A major section is for diabetic patients from different age groups.

“This unit works on providing awareness programs and different treatments that could reduce the side effects of diabetes. It also provides medicines and medical equipment. It has a number of clinics devoted to children, youths and the elderly and introduces them to medical and diet programs,” explained Taib.

Special care is given to the feet of diabetics, with specialists working to ensure there is no need for amputations, which can happen when complications arise. The center, explained Taib, also holds regular eye checkups for diabetics.

According to him, the center also has a rehabilitation center for children and the elderly equipped with different sports machines to help strengthen muscles. It also offers heart and blood pressure checkups.

Other units offer support for illnesses involving the joints, rheumatology and osteoporosis. A dental clinic is also available.

The center has a devoted section for training and organizing medical seminars and research. Attached to the center are a charity pharmacy and laboratory.