Choosing a health fund in Israel: Why new immigrants get it wrong

For new immigrants arriving in Israel, selecting a health fund (Kupat Holim or HMO) is often one of their first decisions. However, many struggle with understanding the system, leading them to make choices based on familiarity or recommendations rather than a thorough evaluation. Laurent, a health systems expert, notes that in many cases, the decision is made abroad and is based mainly on familiar names, such as Maccabi, rather than an in-depth understanding of the options available.

Israel's healthcare system operates differently from countries with more open-access models, where individuals can visit any doctor. In Israel, once registered with a specific health fund, patients are restricted to that fund's services, which can create confusion for newcomers. This can result in unnecessary visits to emergency rooms as they struggle to find the appropriate care.

While all health funds provide the same basic services, practical factors such as the availability of doctors who speak their language, proximity of clinics or pharmacies to their homes, and the accessibility of staff play significant roles in the quality of care. The family doctor is particularly important in the Israeli system, acting as a foundation for community medicine.

Large providers like Clalit, with extensive clinic networks, emphasize this community-based model, although access and experience can still vary by location. Language support is another crucial consideration, particularly for those with limited Hebrew proficiency. Some health funds, including Clalit, have expanded language outreach services, but gaps remain for new arrivals navigating the system for the first time.

Despite these challenges, few new immigrants switch health funds after arriving, despite potential dissatisfaction with their initial choice. This reluctance is often due to concerns about losing rights, although switching is both possible and does not affect eligibility. Health experts stress that the decision to choose a health fund should not be made hastily and should be based on practical fit, such as the availability of local doctors, service accessibility, and language support.

For those still abroad, it is advisable to focus on the practical aspects rather than general reputation when making this decision. Importantly, new immigrants can switch health funds without interruption in coverage, a detail many are unaware of. Despite its complexities, Israel's healthcare system ensures universal coverage, meaning that every individual has access to healthcare services at all times.