A practical guide for new olim inside the Kupat Holim system

Once you’re registered with a Kupat Holim, the next challenge is knowing how to actually use it.
Finding the right doctor, booking appointments, and understanding what’s covered can feel overwhelming, especially in a new language.

This guide explains how to locate doctors and services, what to expect, and how to avoid common frustrations as an oleh.

Finding Doctors (GPs & Specialists):

Each Kupat Holim has an online doctor directory where you can search by:

• Specialty

• Location

• Clinic

• Language (often includes English)

Booking is usually done online, via app, or by phone.

Here are the relevant links for the four main Kupat Holim's:

·        Clalit

·        Maccabi

·        Leumit

·        Meuhedet

Tip: Even if the doctor speaks English, reception staff may not. Online booking is usually easiest.

Seeing a Specialist:

In most cases:

1. You first see your GP (family doctor)

2. They give you a referral

3. You book a specialist appointment through the Kupah

Wait times vary:

• Popular specialists can have long waits

• Central areas fill faster

• Peripheral clinics often have earlier availability

If it’s urgent, ask your GP to mark the referral as urgent, or call the Kupah hotline to check availability elsewhere.

Pharmacies & Medications:

Prescriptions can be filled at:

• Kupah pharmacies

• Approved chains (Super-Pharm, Be, etc.)

https://www.gov.il/en/service/israeli-drug-index

Practical Things to Know:

• After-Hours Care

Urgent care clinics (like TEREM in some cities) handle non-life-threatening issues when clinics are closed.

https://www.terem.com/

• Doctor House Calls

Some Kupot offer overnight doctor visits for kids and urgent cases, usually with a fee.

• Women’s Health

Gynecologists usually don’t require referrals.
Pregnancy care is coordinated between Kupah clinics and hospitals.

• Children & Vaccinations

Children’s vaccines are handled by Tipat Halav (separate from Kupah).

https://www.gov.il/en/service/tip-up

 Israel’s healthcare system is strong, but it’s navigation based.
Knowing where to look and who to ask makes all the difference.

Once you understand the system, it gets much easier.

For more information - you can watch Aliyapp VOD webinars on Israel Healthcare

Disclaimer:
This guide is for general information only. Healthcare services, availability, and fees may vary by Kupat Holim, location, and over time. Always check with your Kupat Holim or official government sources for the most up-to-date and personalized information. Aliyapp does not provide medical advice.