Essential Guide to the Health System in Israel

Israel has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is called Clalit Health Services and is funded by the government. It is available to all citizens and permanent residents of Israel, including foreigners. Public hospitals are generally used for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, and are generally well-regarded. Private hospitals are typically used for elective procedures and are more expensive than public hospitals.

Israel's Public Healthcare System

Israel's public healthcare system, Clalit Health Services, is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and permanent residents of Israel, including foreigners. It is a comprehensive system that covers a wide range of medical services, including hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription drugs, and preventive care. Public hospitals in Israel are generally well-regarded and are used for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Israel's Private Healthcare System

Israel also has a private healthcare system, which is more expensive than the public system. Private hospitals are typically used for elective procedures, such as cosmetic surgery, and are not covered by the public system. Private health insurance is available from a variety of companies, and expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

Israel's Top Hospitals

Israel has a number of well-known hospitals, both public and private. Some of the most well-known hospitals include:

• Sheba Medical Center (public, Tel Hashomer)
• Rambam Health Care Campus (public, Haifa)
• Hadassah Medical Center (public, Jerusalem)
• Assuta Medical Center (private, Tel Aviv)
• Ichilov Medical Center (public, Tel Aviv)
• Rabin Medical Center (public, Petah Tikva)

Health Insurance Companies in Israel

The most popular private health insurers in Israel are Clalit Health Services, Maccabi Health Services, Meuhedet Health Services, and Leumit Health Services. These companies offer a variety of plans, including basic coverage, comprehensive coverage, and supplemental coverage. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

Insider Tips from Expats in Israel: How to Navigate the Health System

"The system is difficult to manage if something is wrong. Wait times for appointments are ridiculous. I'm a citizen, so it's not expat care, it's the Israeli socialized medicine," commented one expat living in Tel Aviv, Israel.

"Israel has a well-developed healthcare system that provides high-quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Israel also has a strong emphasis on preventive care, with a focus on early detection and treatment of diseases. Additionally, the country has a well-developed system of medical research and development, which has led to the development of innovative treatments and technologies," mentioned one expat living in Israel.

"Israel has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens and foreign residents. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is of high quality. It is available to all citizens and permanent residents, regardless of their income level. Foreign residents are also eligible for public healthcare services, although they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Israel can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Ministry of Health and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to access the same services as Israeli citizens, including primary care, specialist care, hospitalization, and prescription drugs," commented one member living in Israel.