New Oleh Center · Sparks to Life Tzfat

Healthcare in Israel

Israel has excellent universal healthcare. Here is how to register, choose a health fund, and access care in Tzfat.

How Israeli healthcare works

Every resident of Israel is covered under the National Health Insurance Law. You pay monthly premiums to Bituach Leumi (National Insurance Institute), which funds your health coverage through one of four health funds called Kupot Cholim. By law, no Kupat Cholim can reject you based on age or pre-existing conditions.

The four health funds

Clalit

Largest fund. Strong presence in Tzfat and the Galilee. Good for families. clalit.co.il

Maccabi

Strong English-language support. Popular among new Olim. maccabi4u.co.il

Meuhedet

Smaller, more personal service. Check clinic availability in Tzfat. meuhedet.co.il

Leumit

Competitive supplemental plans. Check clinic availability in Tzfat. leumit.co.il

Coverage for new Olim

First 6 months — free basic coverage

New Olim who are not working receive free basic health coverage for the first 6 months. You are registered at Ben Gurion Airport on arrival day.

After 6 months or when you start working

You pay Bituach Leumi contributions based on your income. This covers your health insurance automatically.

Note for A-1 visa holders and returning residents

Previous A-1 temporary residents and Toshavim Chozrim do NOT receive free 6-month coverage and must pay from day one.

Medications

Most common medications are covered under the basic health basket. Bring a 3-month supply of any medications you take regularly. Cannabis-based products and controlled substances cannot be imported. Ask your doctor for a medical summary in English to hand to your new Israeli physician.

Healthcare in Tzfat

Local to Tzfat

Ziv Medical Center: Henrietta Szold St, Tzfat | Phone: 04-682-8811 | Emergency: 24/7
Clalit Clinic (Tzfat): HaNasi 45, Tzfat | Phone: 04-682-5555
Maccabi Clinic (Tzfat): Arlozorov 52, Tzfat | Phone: 04-692-0165 | Appointment recommended
Meuhedet (Tzfat): Chaim Weizman 6, Tzfat
Leumit (Tzfat): Chaim Weizman 5, Tzfat
Emergency (MDA): Call 101
English-speaking doctors: Ask locally — contact Sparks to Life for current referrals

Sparks to Life can help

If you are a new Oleh in Tzfat dealing with medical needs or facing financial hardship, we are here.

Reach out to us
Nefesh B'Nefesh — Healthcare in Israel ↗NBN Answers: *3680 · Sun-Thu 9am-5pm