Israel
15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Israel
Last updated on Feb 18, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Israel is generally considered to be very high, with many of the country's hospitals and medical centers being world-renowned for their excellence. In comparison to the US, Israel has a much higher rate of doctors per capita, and the country is known for its advanced medical technology and research. Emergency services in Israel are very efficient and reliable, with ambulances being dispatched quickly and arriving on the scene in a timely manner. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the emergency number, 101, or the national emergency medical service number, 106.
How are healthcare services Israel?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Israel, they replied:
"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," remarked one expat living in Israel.
What are medical services in Israel like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Israel, they replied:
"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," said one expat.
"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," remarked one expat in Tel Aviv.
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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Israel?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Israel can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Most Israelis are required to purchase health insurance through one of four health funds, which offer a range of plans with varying levels of coverage. The cost of health insurance depends on the plan chosen, and can range from a few hundred shekels per month to several thousand shekels per month. Additionally, many Israelis opt to purchase supplemental health insurance to cover services not included in their health fund plan. This can add to the overall cost of healthcare in Israel," wrote one expat.
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What are emergency services like in Israel?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Israel wrote:
"In Israel, emergency services are highly developed and reliable. The country has a well-trained and well-equipped ambulance service, as well as a network of hospitals and medical centers. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the national emergency number, 101, or the local emergency number, 100. The operator will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency, and will dispatch an ambulance to your location," mentioned one expat in Israel.
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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Tel Aviv is widely regarded as having the best selection of medical specialists in Israel, with a wide range of specialists available in the city's many hospitals and clinics. Jerusalem is also home to a large number of medical specialists, with many of the city's hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of services. Haifa is another city with a good selection of medical specialists, with a number of hospitals and clinics offering a variety of services. Other cities in Israel with a good selection of medical specialists include Beersheba, Ashdod, and Eilat," commented one expat who moved to Israel.
Are common prescription medications available in Israel?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Israel. Most medications that are available in other countries are also available in Israel, although some may have different brand names. Pharmacies in Israel are required to carry a wide range of medications, and many of them are available without a prescription. In addition, many medications are subsidized by the government, making them more affordable for those who need them," wrote one expat.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Israel?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Israel are of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Israel is home to some of the world's leading medical research centers and hospitals, and its doctors are highly trained and experienced. The country also has a strong emphasis on preventive care, with a focus on early detection and treatment of diseases. In addition, Israel has a comprehensive network of public and private health insurance plans, making it easier for citizens to access quality medical care," said one expat.
As a foreigner living in Israel, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Israel, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Israel is comprehensive and provides a wide range of services, including preventive care, primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and long-term care. The quality of care is generally high, and the cost of care is relatively low compared to other countries. Additionally, the government subsidizes healthcare costs for those who cannot afford them," wrote one expat.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Israel if they have access to public healthcare in Israel. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Israel. The country has implemented a range of measures to protect the health of its citizens, including the introduction of a national contact tracing system, the widespread use of face masks, and the closure of schools and other public spaces. The healthcare system has also been stretched to its limits, with hospitals and clinics facing a surge in demand for services. Despite this, the healthcare system has been able to cope with the increased demand, and the government has provided additional funding to ensure that the system is able to meet the needs of the population," said an expat in Israel.
"We were superstars on that. Best vaccine program in the world (Israel, this is). I was done in Jan 2021," commented one expat living in Tel Aviv, Israel.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Israel?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Israel about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Israel before having a baby. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the different types of healthcare providers and the services they offer. Additionally, it is important to understand the different types of insurance available and the coverage they provide. It is also important to find a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. Finally, it is important to take the time to learn about the culture and customs surrounding childbirth in Israel, as this can help you to feel more prepared and comfortable during the process," remarked one in Israel.
Are healthcare services good in Israel?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Israel. They wrote:
"Israel has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides universal coverage to all citizens and permanent residents. The system is funded by a combination of public and private sources, including national health insurance, employer-based health insurance, and out-of-pocket payments. Healthcare services in Israel are of a high quality, with a wide range of medical specialties and advanced medical technology. The country has a well-developed network of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities, and a highly trained and experienced medical workforce. Israel also has a strong focus on preventive care, with a range of public health initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing the risk of disease," explained one expat living in Israel.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
