Only here one week and already testing out the Qatar medical system.

Unfortunately the morning after we arrived Neko woke with a fever and was throwing up. It wasn't long after that I realized her baby toe was all red and badly swollen to about 3 times its size. I'm still not sure that either were related to each other, but not a fun way to start living in our new house. We monitored her toe but it was hard to tell what was causing the problem.

Finally after a few days of continued swelling and then infection we decided to try a clinic around the corner from our house.

We basically got seen right away since they have a paediatrician working for drop-ins and I didn't see any other children. We were seen and assessed right in his office.

We received a prescription which was filled right away downstairs and then taken to a treatment room to have a dressing put on (which unfortunately only stayed a couple hours on an active toddler!). We left paying nothing thanks to our medical coverage, but I think the doctor visit would have only cost about $15, and the two prescriptions about the same had we had to pay.

The doctor asked us to come back the day after next, to which I questioned "Friday?" (which is the family/holy day here) and he said oh yes but after 8pm, Ramadan timing! Thought maybe I'd bring her Saturday morning, but after her nail started to come off tonight I figured we might as well go tonight.

Poor Neko, always seems to be something but she handles it all so well. The nail had to be removed, but was almost all off anyway. She didn't shed a tear or even squirm much being treated. Now hoping it heals ok and infection stays away. No pool for her for a bit :(

All in all it has been an ok but interesting experience. Although everyone speaks English, it is often a barrier to clear communication and understanding. The doctor was able to communicate no problem but when speaking to the other staff, they were speaking hindi? so you don't really know what is going on!

I think we'll see if we can search out a Canadian doctor for regular check ups, but nice to know an emergency clinic is so close.