What To Do When You're Sick in Israel
You're not alone. The system is here for you.
You're not alone. The system is here for you – let us help you navigate it.
Being sick is hard. Being sick far from home, in a country where you don't speak the language and don't know the system, can feel overwhelming.
First – Trust Yourself
If something feels wrong with your body, take it seriously. You know yourself best. Don't wait too long, don't try to push through, and don't be embarrassed to ask for help.
In Israel, you are entitled to medical care. Use it.
Is This Urgent?
Don't hesitate. Don't wait. Call 101. The paramedics will come to you.
For Everything Else – Here's the Path
- Tell your employer or supervisor – let them know you're not feeling well. They are responsible for your health insurance and can help you with the next steps.
- Get your insurance details – ask for your insurance company name and policy number.
- Call the insurance company – tell them your name, policy number, and what you're feeling. Ask: "Where is the nearest clinic I can go to?"
If the language is a barrier – ask a colleague to help. You don't have to do it alone.
- Go to the clinic – bring your passport, insurance details, and a note of any medications you take.
Useful Words at the Doctor
What you want to say and How to say it
- I'm in pain — כואב לי — ko-EV li
- My head hurts — כואב לי הראש — ko-EV li ha-ROSH
- My stomach hurts — כואב לי הבטן — ko-EV li ha-BE-ten
- I have a fever — יש לי חום — yesh li KHUM
- I can't breathe well — קשה לי לנשום — KA-she li lish-OM
- Since yesterday — מאתמול — me-et-MOL
After the Visit
Fill your prescription at any pharmacy – look for the sign בית מרקחת (Beit Merkakhat).
Keep all receipts and documents. Rest – your health comes before work.
Always ask for a doctor's note (Teudat Mahal – תעודת מחלה) for every sick day.
Your Right to Paid Sick Days
Late at Night or on a Weekend?
Many cities have 24-hour urgent care clinics (Moked Refui – מוקד רפואי) for situations that aren't life-threatening but can't wait until morning.
The Simple Summary
- Situation and — What to do
- Life-threatening — Call 101 immediately
- Feeling sick — Tell employer → get insurance details → call insurance → go to clinic
- After the visit — Keep documents, get doctor's note, rest
- Pharmacy — Look for בית מרקחת (Beit Merkakhat)
- Sick days — You're entitled – always get a doctor's note
