Israel is known for its high-quality healthcare system, which consistently ranks among the best in the world. The country operates a universal healthcare model, which provides residents with access to comprehensive medical services through a combination of public and private providers.
Healthcare in Israel is generally affordable compared to many Western nations, and there is a strong emphasis on accessibility. Most doctors and healthcare staff speak English, particularly in urban centres and major hospitals, which makes navigating the system easier for international residents. However, understanding how health insurance works, what is covered, and where private care may be preferable is important for newcomers.
Public healthcare in Israel
Israel’s public healthcare system is built on universal coverage, funded through taxes and delivered by four non-profit health organisations known as Kupot Holim (sick funds). All citizens and permanent residents are automatically entitled to care, and many expats with valid work or residency permits might also qualify, depending on their visa type and employment arrangements. Tourists and short-term visitors are excluded and must rely on private insurance.
The quality of care in Israel is regarded as excellent, with modern hospitals, advanced treatments, and highly trained doctors. That said, wait times for non-urgent appointments and procedures can be lengthy, and services outside major cities can be less comprehensive. Costs are kept affordable through subsidies – residents make a compulsory health insurance contribution via taxes and typically only pay small co-payments for certain services, prescriptions, or specialist visits.
To access the system, eligible residents will need to register with one of the four Kupot Holim, which provide a wide range of medical services. English is widely spoken by medical professionals, especially in urban centres, however, language barriers can still be an issue in smaller clinics. Overcrowding in hospitals and coverage gaps for certain treatments are other common limitations, which is why many expats choose to supplement their access with private or international health insurance.
Does Israel have free healthcare?
Israel does not provide entirely free healthcare, but its public system is heavily subsidised to ensure residents have access to essential medical services at a relatively low cost. All citizens and permanent residents, along with certain expats who have valid work or residency permits, contribute to the system through a compulsory monthly health insurance levy, collected as part of taxes. This contribution covers a wide range of services, including visits to GPs, hospital care, emergency treatment, and preventive services.
Despite this extensive coverage, patients still have to make co-payments for some specialist consultations, elective procedures, advanced treatments, or prescription medications. The amount is generally modest, but costs can add up for more complex or ongoing care. Expats and short-term visitors who do not qualify for public coverage are fully responsible for their medical expenses, so private or international health insurance is essential to avoid significant out-of-pocket costs.
Does Israel have free healthcare?
Private healthcare in Israel
Private healthcare in Israel offers a number of advantages over the public system, especially for expats who want quicker access to treatment and a higher level of comfort. Appointments with specialists are usually faster, hospital rooms and facilities tend to be more modern and comfortable, and English-speaking staff are more widely available.
The cost of private care can vary depending on the treatment and facility, but consultations with a specialist generally range from moderate to high, and elective procedures or hospital stays can be significantly more expensive than under the public system. Many expats choose to take out private health insurance to help cover these costs and ensure access to a broader network of providers.
Some of the most popular private hospitals and clinics include Sheba Medical Center’s private wing, Assuta Medical Center, and Herzliya Medical Center, all of which offer advanced medical services and international patient support.
Health insurance for expats in Israel
Health insurance is not legally mandatory for expats in Israel, but it is often recommended to avoid high medical costs. Many expats rely on private or international health insurance, which provides more comprehensive coverage than the public system alone and ensures access to faster care and English-speaking medical staff.
There are two main types of insurance options: local Israeli plans and international plans. Local plans are offered by Israeli insurers and typically cover routine medical care, hospital treatment, specialist visits, and prescription medications. International plans are designed for expats and often include additional benefits such as emergency evacuation, repatriation, and coverage for pre-existing conditions or treatment outside Israel.
Coverage generally includes consultations with doctors, hospital care, diagnostic tests, and sometimes dental or maternity services, depending on the plan. Exclusions commonly include elective cosmetic procedures, certain pre-existing conditions, and experimental treatments.
Costs vary based on age, health, and level of coverage, with local plans often starting from around a few hundred shekels per month, while international plans can range from several hundred to over a thousand shekels monthly for more comprehensive protection. Policies can be purchased directly from insurance providers or through brokers who specialise in expatriate health insurance.
Pharmacies and medication in Israel
Pharmacies in Israel are widely available and easily accessible in cities and towns, often operating seven days a week, with larger branches open late. Over-the-counter medications for common ailments such as pain relief, cold and flu, or allergies are generally easy to obtain. Prescription medicines will require a doctor’s prescription, which can be issued by either public or private healthcare providers.
To fill a prescription, patients will need to present it at a pharmacy, where the pharmacist will dispense the medication and provide guidance on dosage and usage. Many pharmacists speak English, particularly in urban areas, which makes the process straightforward for expats. Some medications available over the counter in other countries might require a prescription in Israel, so it is important to check before you travel.
The costs of medication will vary depending on whether the prescription is covered by public health insurance, private insurance, or paid entirely out of pocket. Generic versions are often available at lower prices, whilst branded medications can be more expensive. You should confirm whether your insurance plan reimburses prescription costs and carry any necessary documentation when you collect your medications, to ensure you have uninterrupted access to essential treatment.
Pharmacies and medication in Israel
Hospitals in Israel
Public vs private hospitals
Israel’s hospital system is a mix of public and private facilities. The public hospitals are generally large, well-equipped, and linked to the national health funds. Private hospitals typically offer faster access, more comfort, and a higher level of personal service. There are more than 40 major hospitals across the country, many of which are associated with universities and research centres.
Quality of hospitals in Israel
A number of hospitals in Israel are internationally accredited, including Joint Commission International (JCI) certifications. Public and private hospitals alike maintain high standards of care, and many expats report confidence in the quality and professionalism of medical staff.
Hospitals in Israel
English-speaking staff in Israeli hospitals
English-speaking staff are widely available across Israel, particularly in urban centres and private hospitals. Interpreters can often be arranged for other languages if required.
Top hospitals in major cities
Key cities with leading hospitals include Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Be’er Sheva. Notable facilities include Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Assuta Medical Center, and Hadassah Medical Center.
Services offered in hospitals in Israel
Hospitals provide a full range of services, including emergency care, specialised treatment, maternity services, surgery, intensive care, and diagnostic imaging.
Hospital admission process
In most cases, referrals from a primary doctor are needed for specialised care, though emergency departments accept walk-ins. Private hospitals often allow direct appointments with specialists.
Costs of healthcare in Israeli hospitals
Inpatient and outpatient costs vary; public coverage reduces expenses for eligible residents, but private care is significantly more costly. Outpatient specialist visits in private hospitals typically start from moderate fees, while complex procedures can run into thousands of shekels.
Facilities and comfort
Private hospitals offer VIP rooms, private rooms, and high-comfort wards, whereas public hospitals generally provide standard shared wards with good medical care but fewer luxury amenities.
Healthcare insurance acceptance
Most private hospitals accept international health insurance directly, although some might require upfront payment with reimbursement claimed later. Public hospitals usually require proof of local health coverage or payment at the point of service for non-residents.
Israel emergency services
The national emergency number for medical assistance is Israel is 101, which connects callers directly to ambulance services. Ambulances are operated by organisations such as Magen David Adom, the country’s main emergency medical service, and are equipped with modern life-saving equipment and trained paramedics. Response times in urban areas are generally fast, although they can take longer in rural or remote locations.
Emergency departments in hospitals maintain a high standard of care, with skilled medical teams capable of handling a wide range of urgent and critical conditions. Most emergency staff speak English, particularly in major cities, which helps expats communicate clearly during a crisis.
For expats, it is important to carry identification and any relevant medical information, such as existing conditions or allergies. You should also be aware of your nearest hospital and make sure you have access to a reliable phone, as this can make all the difference in an emergency.
Israel emergency services
Vaccinations in Israel
There are no mandatory vaccinations for entry into Israel for most visitors, but certain vaccines might be recommended depending on your personal health, planned activities, or the regions you intend to visit. Travellers to Israel are generally advised to be up to date with routine vaccinations, including measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTP), polio, and influenza.
Hepatitis A and B vaccinations are often advised, particularly for those who may have extended stays, eat local street food, or engage in outdoor or healthcare-related work. Rabies vaccination might also be recommended for travellers planning to be in rural areas with potential exposure to animals.
It is also important to ensure your routine adult vaccinations, such as tetanus boosters and seasonal flu shots, are up to date. You can consult with a healthcare provider or travel clinic before departure to ensure you get personalised advice based on your own medical history and planned duration of stay.
Common health risks in Israel
Israel is generally considered a low-risk destination for serious infectious diseases, but travellers and expats should be aware of some common health risks. Foodborne illnesses, such as gastroenteritis or salmonella, can occur, particularly from undercooked or street food. Seasonal flu and respiratory infections are also common, especially during the winter months. Tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, can be a risk in certain rural or forested areas, and heat-related illnesses may arise during hot summers.
Preventive measures include practising good hand hygiene, drinking bottled or filtered water when necessary, and ensuring food is properly cooked. You can use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to help reduce the risk of tick bites. You should also familiarise yourself with local healthcare options and carry any essential medications with you to manage minor conditions or chronic illnesses.
Tips for staying healthy in Israel
Here are some tips to help expats stay healthy while living in Israel:
- Protect against sun exposure by using sunscreen, wearing hats, sunglasses, and light clothing, particularly during the long, hot summers, to reduce the risk of sunburn and skin damage.
- Stay up to date with vaccinations, including routine immunisations and any recommended vaccines such as hepatitis A and B, especially for longer stays or travel to rural areas.
- Be cautious with food and water by practising good hygiene and food safety, as foodborne illnesses such as gastroenteritis or salmonella can occur, particularly from street food or undercooked dishes.
- Prevent tick bites and insect-borne illnesses by using repellent and wearing protective clothing in rural or forested areas, as tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease can occur.
- Keep a basic first aid kit and medications handy, particularly if you are travelling or living outside major cities where medical facilities may be less accessible.
- Register with a local doctor and familiarise yourself with emergency numbers (101 for medical emergencies) to ensure prompt access to healthcare.
- Maintain mental and physical wellbeing by staying active, staying hydrated in hot conditions, and seeking support if adjusting to a new lifestyle or climate becomes challenging.
Tips for staying healthy in Israel
Useful resources
- Emergency number for medical and ambulance: 101
- Emergency number for police: 100
- Emergency number for fire: 102
- Israel Ministry of Health: https://me.health.gov.il/en/
- Israel expat forums for community advice: