Israel has a world-renowned healthcare system, with a wide network of medical professionals and facilities across the country. If you’re looking for a doctor in Israel, whether for routine check-ups or specialized medical care, there are several ways to find and register with a local doctor.
How can you find and register with a local doctor in Israel?
Health Fund Providers
In Israel, most people receive their medical care through one of the country’s four health fund providers – Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, or Leumit. These health funds are funded by the government, and offer a range of services including doctors, clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies.
To register with a doctor in Israel, you will first need to choose a health fund provider. You can do this by visiting the websites of each provider, or by speaking to friends, family, or colleagues who may be able to recommend a specific health fund based on their own experiences.
Once you have chosen a health fund provider, you can register for membership online, by phone, or in person at a branch office. You will be required to provide your personal details, including your name, date of birth, and ID number, as well as information about your medical history.
Once you are registered with a health fund provider, you can search for a doctor using their online directory, which will allow you to find doctors based on location, specialty, language, and other factors. You can then make an appointment with your chosen doctor directly through the health fund’s website or by phone.
Private Clinics
While most Israelis receive their medical care through the country’s health fund providers, there are also a number of private clinics and hospitals that offer medical care for those who are willing to pay for it.
If you prefer to receive medical care from a private clinic or hospital, you can search for clinics and hospitals online or by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues. Once you have chosen a clinic or hospital, you can make an appointment directly with the doctor or specialist of your choice.
However, it’s worth noting that private healthcare in Israel can be expensive, and many people choose to rely on the country’s health fund providers instead.
How are doctor’s appointments paid for in Israel?
In Israel, doctor’s appointments are paid for through the country’s health fund providers, which are funded by the government. To access medical care through a health fund provider, you will need to pay a monthly membership fee, which varies depending on your income level and other factors.
In addition to the membership fee, you may also be required to pay a co-payment for certain medical services, such as specialist consultations or prescription medications. However, these co-payments are usually relatively low, and are designed to ensure that medical care remains accessible to all Israelis.
If you choose to receive medical care from a private clinic or hospital, you will need to pay for the services you receive out-of-pocket. However, many private healthcare providers also offer insurance plans that can help cover the cost of medical care.
How can you transfer your medical documents to a doctor in Israel from abroad?
If you are moving to Israel from another country and need to transfer your medical records to a doctor in Israel, there are several ways to do so.
Contact Your Current Doctor
The easiest way to transfer your medical records to a doctor in Israel is to contact your current doctor or healthcare provider and ask them to send your records to your new doctor in Israel. They may be able to do this electronically or by sending physical copies of your records by mail.
Request Copies of Your Medical Records
If you are planning to visit Israel for medical treatment or consultation, it is essential to have your medical records with you to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. You can transfer your medical documents to a doctor in Israel through the following ways:
Digital Transfer: The easiest and most convenient way to transfer your medical documents is through digital means. You can scan your medical documents and email them to your doctor in Israel. Make sure you send the documents to the correct email address and ensure the file size is within the permissible limits of the email service provider.
Courier: If you are not comfortable sharing your medical documents digitally, you can opt for courier services. Choose a reliable and secure courier service provider to ensure that your medical documents reach the doctor safely and on time. Keep a copy of the documents for yourself and track the courier to ensure timely delivery.
In-person: If you have a short timeline and prefer to transfer the medical documents in person, you can carry them with you during your travel to Israel. Make sure to keep them organized and safe, preferably in a waterproof bag. You can hand over the documents to your doctor in person during your consultation or appointment.
It is important to note that your medical documents should be in English or Hebrew, as these are the official languages in Israel. If your documents are in a different language, you may need to have them translated by a certified translator before sharing them with your doctor.
In conclusion, finding a doctor and registering for medical services in Israel is a simple process, and the country has an efficient and reliable healthcare system. Patients can access medical services through public or private facilities, depending on their preferences and budget. Doctor’s appointments are usually paid for through health insurance or out-of-pocket, and patients can transfer their medical documents to doctors in Israel through digital means, courier, or in person.