A delegation from Jewish Federations of North America visited Rambam Health Care Campus (Rambam) in Haifa, Israel, to see firsthand how their increased emergency funding has provided critical medical supplies and support for wounded soldiers since October 7, 2023.
Since the start of the Swords of Iron War, Jewish Federations of North America have contributed over $2.9 million to Rambam, enabling the hospital to acquire state-of-the-art medical equipment, including simulation mannequins, and fund staff training to address the sharp rise in post-traumatic stress disorder among wounded soldiers and civilians.
During their visit, the delegation met with Professor Michael Halberthal, Rambam’s Director General and CEO, who outlined the hospital’s pivotal role in treating casualties and responding to urgent medical needs during the war. Dr. Avi Weissman, the hospital’s Deputy Director and Director of Anesthesia at the Ambulatory Surgery Center, and Dr. Esther Golan, Managing Director of International Relations and Chief of Strategic Development, shared insights into the hospital’s emergency response and ongoing efforts to support wounded soldiers.
Photography: Rambam HCC
The group also heard from Lior Levi, a PTSD patient, who courageously shared his story and treatment journey at Rambam. Additionally, they met Dr. Reuben Hoch, who recently made immigrated from the United States, and has contributed to the hospital’s wartime medical efforts as a physician at Rambam.
This visit underscores Rambam’s vital role as northern Israel’s largest hospital, providing innovative care and addressing urgent medical needs in times of crisis. As the war’s impact persists, ongoing support remains essential to sustain advanced trauma care and long-term recovery efforts for soldiers and civilians alike.
Rambam is home to Israel’s first Veterans’ Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic. In partnership with the Ministry of Defense, the hospital has supported the psychiatric and psychological needs of Israel Defense Forces veterans for over 40 years and has earned international recognition for its excellence in trauma care and research. Since October 7, Rambam has recorded a 30% increase in patients seeking post-trauma treatment due to the war’s ripple effects.
As part of the ongoing partnership between Jewish Federations and the Ministry of Health, 16 trauma intervention and treatment centers have been established across the country.
These centers are intended to provide an outpatient solution for acute cases, aiming to prevent full hospitalization. Rambam Hospital has established a trauma treatment branch in Haifa for reservists and security forces.