The Ministry of Health announced Monday that all medical check-ups for Haj pilgrims will be carried out for free, according to Khaleej Times.
Dr. Abdul Gaffar Abdul Gaffor, Assistant Under-Secretary for Curative Medicine at the Ministry declared that the pilgrims who required a medical certificate for travelling to Saudi Arabia in order to perform Haj need not present their health cards. The check-up will be done free of charge at all government health centers.
"The ministry is keen to comply with the Saudi health authorities' requirement to supply pilgrims with medical certificate and provide them with the facility for getting appropriate medical treatment," said Dr. Abdul Gaffor.
Dr. Ibrahim Ali Al Qadi, Director of Private Medical Practice Department, said the department was promoting health awareness programs in order to educate pilgrims with necessary health protection measures to be taken during the Haj pilgrimage. A medical team will accompany the UAE Haj mission during the pilgrimage and also ensure that the returning pilgrims take necessary precautions.
Dr. Al Qadi added that the Department would provide pilgrims with a detailed weather forecast for the holy sites during the Haj and would also make sure that they are provided with healthy accommodations and nutrition. Pilgrims have been advised to get a meningitis vaccination ten days before they leave.
A tag will be given to each pilgrim identifying their health condition so as to get better medical services if needed during the pilgrimage. Pilgrims who suffer from hypertension, diabetes or cardiovascular diseases will have to write down the type of medicine they take on a special card that they will carry with them.
In addition, the Department has produced brochures for pilgrims on the health safety instructions to be followed during the Haj period. (Albawaba.com)
© 2002 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
