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Health Excellence in Israel
Israel's extensive medical network and high doctor-patient ratio are reflected in the low infant mortality rate and high life expectancy. Western-level training for medical professions is offered at the country's schools of medicine, dentistry, pharmacology, nursing and physical rehabilitation.
Medical Research and Development in Israel
Israeli researchers have made impressive contributions in the fields of cancer immunology and cardiology, as well as in brain, orthopedic and plastic surgery and in the treatment of burns.
Israel is also playing an important role in the development of medical technology, including computerized diagnostic and monitoring systems, pacemakers, lasers and other life-saving and pain-relieving devices.
Local scientists have developed methods for producing a human growth hormone and interferon, a group of proteins effective against viral infections. Copaxone, a medicine effective in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, was developed in Israel - from basic research to industrial production. Genetic engineering has resulted in a wide range of diagnostic kits based on monoclonal antibodies, along with other microbiological products.
Sophisticated medical equipment for both diagnostic and treatment purposes has been developed and marketed worldwide, such as computer tomography (CT) scanners, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems, ultrasound scanners, nuclear medical cameras, and surgical lasers. Other innovations include a controlled-release liquid polymer to prevent accumulation of tooth plaque, a device to reduce both benign and malignant swellings of the prostate gland, the use of botulin to correct eye squint, and a miniature camera encased in a swallowable capsule used to diagnose gastro-intestinal disease.
Health Services in Israel
Health services are offered at 373 general and specialized hospitals, as well as through a network of outpatient clinics, mother-and-child health care centers, convalescent homes, rehabilitation institutes and school health programs, which include dental care. Medical facilities and services are provided by the Ministry of Health, the large municipalities, private and non-profit institutions and health insurance funds.
Emergency care is available through Magen David Adom (Red Shield of David), which corresponds to the Red Cross, or the Red Crescent, in other countries. It provides a public ambulance service, mobile intensive care units and emergency treatment at first-aid stations all over the country, and maintains a network of blood banks.
Responsibility for all health services is vested in the Ministry of Health, which prepares legislation and oversees its implementation; controls medical standards throughout the country; licenses medical personnel; and supervises the planning and construction of hospitals. The ministry also acts as a public health agency with regard to environmental and preventive medicine.
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