Lebanese people complain about the high cost of medical consultations, which is understandable given the madness of the dollar exchange rate and the ongoing crisis. With the winter season approaching, there are many cases of colds among children, and many parents forgo seeing a doctor due to high costs, opting instead to consult a pharmacist or resort to home remedies. Pediatric specialist Dr. Amy Fghali confirms that the cost of a medical consultation varies from one doctor to another and from one hospital to another, but consultations, tests, and medications can amount to around 3 million Lebanese pounds. She notes that many doctors charge around $50 for a consultation, or the equivalent in Lebanese pounds on the black market.
Regarding the flu vaccine, she clarifies, in an interview with MTV, that support for it was completely lifted earlier, and its price at pharmacies ranges between 500,000 and 700,000 pounds. However, she emphasizes its importance for preventing strong colds and flu, especially for children under five years of age and those with asthma problems and immune issues.
In addition to the vaccine, how can we enhance our children's immunity? Fghali points out that eating healthy food and fruits is very important, along with exercising, going to bed early, and giving the child vitamin D.
For those who cannot take their children to a specialist in a private clinic, Fghali states: "There are pediatricians specializing in public clinics and government hospitals instead of resorting to pharmacies for necessary medical advice." One last piece of advice from Fghali to parents: "Do not hesitate to consult a pediatric specialist, and avoid using antibiotics without a prescription."
