Caretaker Health Minister Firas Abiad announced significant decisions to enhance medical coverage for patients treated at the ministry's expense.

During a press conference held on Wednesday, Abiad detailed the ministry's plans to increase coverage caps for hospitals and fees for doctors. The new measures, which encompass around 50 additional medical procedures, are set to come into force in September, with coverage for heart operation equipment starting in October.

The increase in coverage ceilings is a result of an augmented budget in the hospitalization sector, which has now restored 80 percent of its value compared to the pre-economic crisis period.

"This has significantly improved patients' access to care," Abiad emphasized.

Traditionally, the Ministry of Health covers patients who lack other medical coverage, whether private or through third-party payers like the National Social Security Fund (NSSF).

Despite the improvements, Abiad acknowledged several ongoing challenges, including demands from hospitals and doctors for quicker payment of their dues. Some major private hospitals have even canceled the ceilings reserved for patients treated at the ministry's expense. 

"The ministry has developed a series of solutions to these problems that will make a difference at the level of patients," he stated, highlighting the importance of coordination with private unions. One significant measure is the digitalization of hospital and doctor invoices, which will expedite the control and transfer of these invoices to the finance department.

According to Abiad, hospital invoices for the year 2023 have been paid up to 98 percent, and the ministry is committed to paying its invoices within three to four months from now on.

In response to doctors' demands, the ministry will also increase coverage in second-tier hospitals and for doctors' fees. "We have addressed one of the main demands of doctors to prevent the practice of asking patients for surpluses," Abiad said.

Starting in October, the ministry will cover medical equipment for heart patients, including cardiac catheterization and valve surgeries. This development is a crucial step for Lebanese patients in need of specialized heart care.

Additionally, Abiad mentioned twinning projects between government hospitals and university hospitals to develop specialized services in the former.

"The ministry is working seriously to ensure that services in government hospitals are comparable to those in private hospitals," he stressed.

Finally, the Health Minister urged all affected parties, particularly hospitals and doctors, to adhere to these new measures, warning that non-compliance would result in criminal prosecution.