Aliyah with Medical Needs: Your Guide to Moving to Israel with Health Considerations
Making Aliyah is a significant step in life, and for those with medical needs, the process requires extra planning and preparation. Israel offers a high standard of healthcare, but understanding how to navigate the system and access necessary medical services is crucial for a smooth transition.
Understanding Israel’s Healthcare System
Israel has a universal healthcare system, providing medical coverage to all citizens and new immigrants (Olim). New Olim are entitled to free health insurance for their first year under the Israeli healthcare system, allowing them to register with one of the four health funds (Kupot Cholim):
Clalit – The largest health fund, offering a vast network of clinics, hospitals, and specialist care.
Maccabi – Known for high-quality customer service and advanced medical facilities.
Meuhedet – Offers a balance of public and private healthcare options.
Leumit – A smaller health fund with a focus on personalized medical care.
Each health fund offers a basic package of medical services, which includes doctor visits, specialist consultations, hospital treatments, and certain medications. You also have the option to purchase supplementary insurance for expanded coverage, such as additional medical tests, private hospital treatments, and dental care.
Steps to Take Before Aliyah
Gather Your Medical Records: Ensure you have copies of all relevant medical records, including past treatments, prescriptions, and doctor recommendations. Translating them into Hebrew will facilitate communication with Israeli medical professionals.
Consult with Your Doctors: Discuss your plans with your current healthcare providers to get their recommendations for continued care in Israel. If needed, request referrals for specialists in Israel.
Check Eligibility for Benefits: Contact Misrad Haklita (Ministry of Aliyah and Integration) and Bituach Leumi (National Insurance Institute) to determine what financial and medical benefits you may be entitled to, including disability benefits, medical subsidies, and caregiver assistance.
Research Medical Facilities: Locate hospitals, specialists, and rehabilitation centers in your future city of residence. Major hospitals in Israel include Sheba Medical Center, Hadassah Medical Center, Rambam Hospital, and Ichilov Hospital.
Stock Up on Medications: Bring an adequate supply of prescribed medications to cover your transition period while registering with an Israeli doctor. Some medications may not be available in Israel or might require a new prescription.
Understand Emergency Care: Israel has an extensive emergency medical system, including Magen David Adom (MDA), which provides ambulance services. Ensure you know the locations of nearby hospitals and emergency facilities.
Registering for Healthcare in Israel
Once you arrive in Israel, you must register with one of the health funds to access medical services. This can be done at a post office or a local branch of the Kupat Cholim of your choice. If you have specific medical needs, choosing the right health fund with the best specialists in your area is essential.
To register, you will need:
Your Teudat Zehut (Israeli ID) or Teudat Oleh (Immigrant Certificate)
A local bank account for automatic health fund payments (after the free year ends)
Your preferred Kupat Cholim selection
After registration, you can schedule an initial consultation to discuss your medical needs and be assigned a family doctor who will coordinate your care.
Special Considerations for Olim with Disabilities or Chronic Conditions
Israel provides various support services for Olim with disabilities and chronic conditions, including:
National Insurance Benefits: Financial support for those unable to work due to medical conditions. Bituach Leumi offers disability pensions and medical expense reimbursements.
Rehabilitation Programs: Assistance for Olim needing specialized rehabilitation services, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
Discounted Medications: The healthcare system subsidizes many prescription medications. Olim can apply for special subsidies if a medication is not included in the standard health basket.
Homecare and Assisted Living Options: Services for those requiring long-term care, home assistance, or placement in specialized facilities.
Special Needs Support: Olim with disabilities can access services through organizations such as Beit Issie Shapiro, Yad Sarah, and ALEH, which provide equipment, therapy, and caregiver support.
Finding English-Speaking Doctors and Specialists
Many doctors in Israel speak English, especially in major cities like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Haifa. However, if you require English-speaking medical professionals, you can:
Ask your health fund for a list of English-speaking doctors.
Join Facebook groups such as "Anglo Medical Community Israel" to get recommendations.
Visit private medical centers such as Herzliya Medical Center or Assuta Hospital, which offer high-end medical services with English-speaking staff.
Aliyah Success Stories
Many Olim with medical conditions have successfully transitioned to life in Israel, thanks to the country’s strong healthcare infrastructure. For instance:
Sarah, a diabetic Oleh from the US, was able to transition smoothly with the help of an English-speaking endocrinologist and a support group for diabetics in Israel.
David, who uses a wheelchair, found accessible housing in Tel Aviv and now benefits from government assistance for mobility support.
Rachel, a cancer survivor, was able to continue treatments in Israel thanks to advanced oncology centers and support from her Kupat Cholim.
With proper planning and the right resources, you can ensure a smooth move while receiving the medical care you need.
Get Expert Assistance
Navigating the Israeli healthcare system as a new immigrant can be challenging, but Easy Aliyah is here to help. We provide guidance on medical benefits, healthcare registration, and finding the right specialists for your needs. Contact us today to make your Aliyah process as smooth as possible.