Health, vaccinations and medical care in Lebanon

The deposit is the thing to prepare for

• Most medical providers and hospitals insist on significant cash deposits before admitting patients, including in emergencies. That is the FCDO's wording, and Canada's is that payment in advance is almost always required in private facilities.
• You need travel insurance covering treatment, medical evacuation and repatriation, and you need funds you can actually reach on the day. A policy that reimburses in six weeks does not get you through the admissions desk.
• Call your insurer as soon as you are referred anywhere, before treatment starts.

The state of the system

• Availability and quality have been affected by the economic crisis and fuel shortages, though the FCDO says the situation has stabilised for private healthcare and hospitals in Beirut.
• Canada's list of what the crisis does is more specific: air conditioning and electricity turned off, non-essential treatment cancelled, sections of hospitals closed or at reduced capacity, and admissions refused for lack of space or supplies.
• Doctors are generally well qualified and most medical staff speak French and English. Nursing standards vary.
• The airport has first aid and emergency services staffed by licensed doctors, 24 hours a day, in the east and west sides of both the arrival and departure halls.

Medicines

• Medical supplies can occasionally be hard to find. Take what you need with you rather than expecting to buy it here.
• Carry a medical certificate for prescription medication, confirming it was prescribed for a condition. The legal status of a UK or Canadian prescription drug can differ in Lebanon.

Before you go

• Check the vaccine recommendations at least 8 weeks ahead.
• There have been reported cases of cholera in Lebanon. Follow food and water precautions, and read the current guidance rather than assuming it is historical.