“The program is being carried out for the sixth year in succession and we are continuing this program because of its popularity among citizens and expatriates,” an official from the Health Awareness Information Center (HAIC) at the Ministry of Health told Arab News Saturday.
The ministry has a team of specialized doctors to reply to queries and doubts of people on health issues related to Ramadan. The panel comprises doctors, pharmacists, nutritionists and trained health personnel who could field any health related questions, the official said.
During the holy month, callers can phone 800 24 94 444 or fax their questions to 2916754 – Extension 105 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on all working days. “The officials at the center will help callers in providing the necessary health advice, the official added.
Health Ministry Spokesman, Dr. Khalid Al-Mirghalani, said that the program would highlight several health topics related to Ramadan such as pregnancy, women’s health, asthma and diabetes. The program would also lay emphasis on nutrition. Al-Mirghalani pointed out that the ministry is committed to spreading and upgrading health awareness among different segments of society focusing its programs on patients.
He said that the patients who are suffering from chronic ailments such as diabetes, cardiac diseases and renal problems should re-adjust their time table for the intake of medicines. “We will advise such patients to adjust their consumption of tablets to fall in line with the fasting period,” he said. He noted that a team of specialists would be available daily at the call center from 1 to 3 p.m., while the remaining period will be covered by consultants in various fields.
Last year, the call center was inundated with inquiries from all parts of the Kingdom. Saudi women showed more interest than men in getting health information through the program. Saudi women made use of this opportunity to get their health questions answered through the program since they believe in strict privacy. The ministry has put women at the desk to answer queries so that the caller can speak freely about their problems with the health consultants.
“Another interesting part in this program is the caller can spend more time with the doctor behind the screen in order to clarify doubts,” the official said.
Regarding Muslims going for Umrah during the holy month, the official stressed that they should strictly follow the medical advice given by their doctors. He pointed out that the pilgrims should be mindful of their food and avoid congested areas. “Pilgrims should look after their personal hygiene when they are in such large groups .”
Basic health habits such as washing the hands before eating, covering their mouths and noses while sneezing or coughing and avoiding spending time under the sun will help the pilgrims stay healthy, he added .
