(The opinions in this guide are the author’s alone.)

If you’re coming from the United States, where healthcare can mean endless insurance battles, you may find Israeli healthcare surprisingly easy. But, like everything in Israel, Israeli healthcare has its quirks. So let’s break it down to one basic question: How can you avoid unnecessary frustration?

Know Your Kupot

First, Israel provides universal healthcare through four health funds, or kupot cholim: Clalit, Maccabi, Meuhedet, and Leumit. These are the Israeli version of American HMOs, but with more Hebrew acronyms and a fraction of the paperwork. Each kupah offers basic coverage as part of the National Health Insurance (NIH) system. They also provide supplemental plans with extras like dental care, alternative medicine and (allegedly) shorter wait times.

The four kupot are:

• Clalit: The largest kupah, with extensive hospital and clinic networks. Great for those who want widespread access. It’s efficient but not exactly warm and fuzzy.
• Maccabi: Often seen as the “Apple Store” of kupot—sleek, efficient, and slightly more expensive.
• Meuhedet: Great if you like personalized service and shorter lines. It has been popular among English-speaking olim. (Their web site features a user-friendly English portal.)
• Leumit: The smallest kupah but a solid option, especially for those living in smaller towns where Clalit and Maccabi clinics might be packed.

The good news? You can switch kupot every six months.

Prescription Medicines: Good, Bad, and ‘Wait, That’s Prescription?’

Americans are often surprised that some medications they can easily get at Walgreens without a second thought—like strong allergy meds—require a prescription here. On the bright side, many prescription medications are subsidized, making them significantly cheaper than their American counterparts. Also certain Israeli OTC meds are cheaper with a prescription, so be sure to check what your kupah covers.

Each kupah has its own formulary or sal (literally, basket), meaning certain medications might be covered by one kupah but not another. If you rely on a specific medication, check which kupah offers the best deal. Another solution is to “smuggle” in your favorite OTC meds when you return from your next trip to the States. (We tend to stock up on Advil and cold capsules from BJ’s or Costco.)

Telehealth, Israeli Style

Most kupot offer telehealth services, allowing you to consult with a doctor via video call or chat. This is particularly useful if you’d rather not sit in a waiting room surrounded by coughing children. Additionally, you can always do Zoom against a green screen background if you feel self-conscious.

Sharap: Israeli Healthcare’s Secret Weapon

If you’re someone who values efficiency and doesn’t mind paying a bit extra for it, private healthcare services (Sherut Refu-i Pratit or Sharap) might be your best friend. Offered mainly through hospitals, Sharap allows you to see top-tier specialists without the usual wait times. The downside? You’ll pay out of pocket, but compared to U.S. private healthcare, it’s often a fraction of the cost. Think of it as Israeli medicine’s business class—less hassle and better service.

Nothing Is Perfect

While being affordable and accessible, Israel’s healthcare is not without its frustrations:

• Bureaucracy: Expect to be bounced between departments or told to call back after 3 p.m. (only to find out that the office closes at 2 p.m.).
• Long Wait Times for Specialists: If you need to see a dermatologist, neurologist or some other specialist, be prepared to wait—sometimes months.
• Language Barriers: While many doctors speak English, not all do. A little Hebrew can go a long way when navigating the system.

How to Get Good Advice

Before committing to a health fund, consider your location, medical history and preferences. Want English-speaking doctors? Need a specific medication? Prefer to pay for speedier service? Olim Paveway can help you choose a kupah to meet your needs and avoid common pitfalls.

Israeli healthcare may seem confusing at first, but with proper guidance and a little patience you’ll soon be making the system work for you.

Tihyu bri’im. Stay healthy!

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