Hebrew in the Israeli Healthcare System
The Ministry of Health requires that all physicians be able to read and comprehend medical records, test results, and documentation written in Hebrew by other healthcare professionals. Enhancing your medical Hebrew skills both before and after Aliyah will not only help you succeed if exams are required but also ensure a smoother integration into the Israeli healthcare system.
Get Started Before Aliyah
You don’t need to wait until you’re in Israel to start preparing!
Dr. Eliot Kusnetz, an Oleh physician, has compiled a list of essential general medical Hebrew terms that he and other Olim physicians have found valuable. You can access that list here.
Videos & Podcasts: Many people find it beneficial to watch videos on YouTube or listen to podcasts when it comes to learning a new language. We found a great video of common medical Hebrew terms here, but feel free to search around. There are also great general Hebrew learning videos online to strengthen your language skills.
Private Tutors: Consider working with a private tutor, either online or in person. Many community centers and synagogues offer Hebrew lessons—reach out to a teacher and inquire about tailored sessions focusing on medical terminology.
You can also register for one of the Ulpan courses listed down below. Please note that each Ulpan has its own criteria for application/acceptance, and this is by no means a comprehensive list!
Government Subsidized Medical Ulpan
- Countrywide
- Official Website
The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration’s Physician Olim Directorate provides a specialized Medical Ulpan for Olim physicians residing in Israel.
This advanced course focuses on clinical medical terminology and professional Hebrew communication, taught by expert instructors. These classes are designed to provide the linguistic tools necessary for practicing medicine in Israel and are offered in various formats (online or in-person). To apply or learn more: med_aliyah@moia.gov.il.
Hebrew Connect
- Countrywide
- Official Website
If you’re a physician who hasn’t yet made Aliyah, you’re eligible for one free Hebrew Ulpan course through Hebrew Connect, thanks to a generous subsidy from IMAP and the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration’s Physician Olim Directorate. After taking a placement test and determining your current Hebrew level, you will be placed in either a general Hebrew Ulpan or a medical-focused Ulpan.
If you’ve already made Aliyah and are interested in one of these courses, you can still register at a discounted rate.
For more information on Hebrew Connect’s medical Ulpan course, click here. For information on their general Ulpanim, click here.
General Hebrew Ulpan
- Countrywide
- Official Website
If you want to strengthen your general Hebrew language skills once you’ve already made Aliyah, you may be eligible for a government-subsidized Ulpan as part of your Aliyah Rights and Benefits package after you arrive in Israel.
Who to Contact:
- Pre-Aliyah (outside of North America): Your Jewish Agency representative.
- Pre-Aliyah (North America): Your Nefesh B’Nefesh Aliyah Advisor.
- Post-Aliyah: Reach out to the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration.
London School of Jewish Studies Ulpan
- Countrywide
- Official Website
The London School for Jewish Studies recently opened up a fully online Medical Ulpan for physicians and medical professionals interested in working in the Israeli medical system.
The course will focus on practical, professional vocabulary, and provide you with the opportunity to strengthen your Hebrew medical terminology from the comfort of your own computer. For more information regarding the course, or to register, please reach out to lsjsadmin@lsjs.ac.uk!
Please Note: Both Stage I (written) and Stage II (oral) exams are conducted exclusively in Hebrew and may be required as part of your specialty recognition process.
