Minister of Health at Hôtel-Dieu de France

The Minister of Health in the caretaker government, Dr. Firas Al-Abyad, conducted an inspection visit to Hôtel-Dieu de France to express the Ministry of Health's solidarity with hospitals during these difficult circumstances. He was welcomed by the General Director of the Hospitals Network – USJ-HDF, Mr. Nasib Nasr, the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Saint Joseph University, Professor Elie Nemer, as well as the Medical Director, the Nursing Director, and several managers, officials, and representatives from medical and nursing teams.

Mr. Nasib Nasr thanked the Ministry of Health for its efforts in the current situation and pointed out that Hôtel-Dieu de France is providing all possible services and cooperation to our Lebanese citizens, especially those displaced from the south, the suburbs, and the Bekaa Valley. He emphasized that the Ministry's support and collaboration in such cases are essential to ensure the best possible care.

For his part, the minister confirmed that the current situation for the displaced is extremely challenging, as the enemy seeks to create chaos and pressures through their displacement, negatively impacting the health sector due to an increase in the number of casualties in specific areas. He explained that the Ministry of Health is monitoring all data in hospitals and is striving to distribute cases evenly to avoid pressure on any particular hospital. He also noted the ongoing collaboration with various entities, including the Red Cross, to provide support in this context.

Dr. Al-Abyad announced the establishment of a mechanism to cover war casualties, indicating efforts to provide care for the displaced in the emergency department, where approximately fifty hospitals have been selected for this purpose. In addition, the ministry is working to establish designated centers under its supervision.

The minister stressed the importance of including some university hospitals in these programs, as this partnership contributes to enhancing the core mission of university hospitals. Regarding assistance, the minister clarified that the ministry distributes all supplies it receives, despite the limited quantities available so far.

In conclusion, the minister called on everyone to intensify efforts to overcome these challenges and ensure the best possible healthcare for citizens in these exceptional circumstances. He emphasized that what distinguishes the health sector and reflects its significant efforts is the transparent and swift communication between all parties involved.