1. What healthcare coverage options are available for U.S. citizens and green card holders in Israel?

U.S. citizens and green card holders in Israel typically qualify for the Israeli healthcare system, which offers comprehensive coverage for medical care in the country. The Israeli healthcare system is based on the National Insurance Law. Eligible individuals can enroll in Israel’s National Health Insurance (NHI) program, which provides coverage for the majority of medical services, including hospitalization, doctor visits, lab tests, drugs, and preventative care. Additionally, U.S. citizens and green card holders in Israel may also be able to purchase private health insurance plans offered by select providers. These plans typically provide a more comprehensive level of coverage than the NHI program, but can be more expensive.

2. Can U.S. citizens and green card holders purchase private health insurance in Israel?

Yes, U.S. citizens and green card holders can purchase private health insurance in Israel. However, it is important to note that the coverage may not be as comprehensive as health insurance plans available in the United States. Additionally, most private health insurance plans in Israel do not cover pre-existing conditions, meaning that any medical condition a person may have prior to getting health insurance will not be covered by the policy.

3. What public healthcare programs are available for U.S. citizens and green card holders in Israel?

U.S. citizens and green card holders in Israel are eligible to receive medical benefits through the Israeli health insurance system, known as Clalit. The system provides access to a range of services, including preventive care, hospitalization, prescription drugs, laboratory tests, and counseling. In addition, U.S. citizens and green card holders may be eligible for additional assistance through the Israeli Ministry of Health’s Supplementary Health Insurance Plan. This plan provides low-cost coverage for medical services not included in the basic Clalit plan. Finally, some U.S. citizens and green card holders in Israel may be eligible for special assistance from the American Friends of Clalit, a nonprofit organization that works to facilitate access to healthcare in Israel and to help bridge the gap between the Clalit system and the American healthcare system.

4. Is travel insurance available for U.S. citizens and green card holders visiting Israel?

Yes, travel insurance is available for U.S. citizens and green card holders visiting Israel. Companies such as World Nomads and Allianz Global Assistance offer travel insurance policies that cover U.S. citizens and green card holders traveling to Israel.

5. Are pre-existing medical conditions covered under health insurance in Israel?

Yes, pre-existing medical conditions are typically covered under health insurance in Israel. Most health insurance plans will cover some or all of the costs associated with pre-existing medical conditions, however, the coverage may differ depending on the plan and the specific condition.

6. Are there any restrictions on medical care for U.S. citizens and green card holders in Israel?

Yes, there are restrictions on medical care for U.S. citizens and green card holders in Israel. U.S. citizens and green card holders may only access medically necessary services while in Israel if they are covered by an Israeli health insurance policy or have a valid American health insurance policy that covers medical care in Israel. Additionally, U.S. citizens and green card holders living in Israel are required to register with the Israeli Ministry of Health in order to be eligible for medical care in Israel.

7. How does the cost of healthcare in Israel compare to other countries?

The cost of healthcare in Israel is generally considered to be relatively low compared to other countries. According to data from the World Health Organization, in 2017 the cost of healthcare per capita in Israel was US$2,876, compared to the US$10,586 average for OECD countries. Israel also performs well in terms of health outcomes, with life expectancy (82.9 years) being higher than the OECD average (80.6 years).

8. Does the government offer subsidies for medical care in Israel?

Yes, the Israeli government does provide subsidies for medical care. The national health insurance system provides coverage for most medical needs, including hospitalization, surgery, and prescription drugs. Additionally, the Ministry of Health offers subsidies for certain treatments and medications as well.

9. How does health insurance coverage work for U.S citizens and green card holders living in Israel?

Health insurance for U.S. citizens and green card holders living in Israel generally works in one of two ways:

1. The U.S. citizen/green card holder may purchase a private international health insurance plan from a carrier like GeoBlue that provides coverage in Israel (as well as other countries).

2. The U.S. citizen/green card holder may be eligible for coverage through the Israeli health care system, known as “Clalit”. In order to qualify, the individual must meet certain criteria set by the Israeli government, including but not limited to having lived in the country for at least six months.

In either case, it is important to note that coverage for pre-existing conditions may be limited or unavailable.

10. Are there any special considerations for healthcare coverage for retired U.S citizens and green card holders living in Israel?

Yes, there are special considerations for healthcare coverage for retired U.S. citizens and green card holders living in Israel. The Medicare program does not cover any medical expenses incurred outside of the United States. However, the Social Security Administration has agreements with Israel and a number of other countries that allow eligible individuals living in those countries to receive their Social Security retirement benefits. Additionally, the US Department of State offers an Expatriate Health Plan that can help cover medical expenses incurred outside of the US for US citizens living abroad. Lastly, many private health insurance companies offer international insurance plans specifically tailored to individuals living abroad.

11. Does Israel have a law protecting citizens from high healthcare costs?

Yes, Israel has had a law protecting citizens from high healthcare costs since 1995. The National Health Insurance Law (NHI) was passed in 1995 and provides universal health coverage for all citizens and permanent residents. This law ensures that everyone has access to a wide range of health services, including preventive care, hospitalization, and medications.

12. Are prescription drugs covered under health insurance plans in Israel?

Yes, prescription drugs are typically covered under health insurance plans in Israel. However, the exact coverage will vary depending on the specific plan. Some plans may offer full coverage while others may offer only partial coverage. Additionally, some insurance plans may require a co-payment for certain prescription medications.

13. What is the out-of-pocket cost for U.S citizens and green card holders receiving medical care in Israel?

The out-of-pocket cost for U.S citizens and green card holders receiving medical care in Israel depends on the type of care received and the insurance plan they have. Generally speaking, patients are required to pay a co-payment for most services, as well as any additional fees for medications, tests, and procedures. Additionally, some insurance plans may require U.S citizens and green card holders to pay a deductible or coinsurance for certain services.

14. Are there any government-funded clinics or hospitals available to U.S citizens and green card holders in Israel?

Yes, there are government-funded clinics and hospitals available to U.S citizens and green card holders in Israel. The U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv maintains a list of approved medical facilities for U.S. citizens and green card holders. These include public hospitals and clinics, as well as private facilities, including Sheba Medical Center, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Hadassah Medical Center, Rambam Health Care Campus, and Clalit Health Services.

15. Does Israel have a national health service that provides free medical care to all citizens?

Yes, Israel does have a national health service, known as Clalit, that provides free medical care to all citizens.

16. Are dental services included in health insurance plans offered to U.S citizens and green card holders in Israel?

No, dental services typically are not included in the health insurance plans offered to U.S citizens and green card holders in Israel.

17. Are there any tax benefits or incentives offered to U.S citizens and green card holders to purchase health insurances in Israel?

No, there are no tax benefits or incentives offered to U.S citizens and green card holders to purchase health insurances in Israel.

18. Is mental health care covered under health insurance plans in Israel?

Yes, mental health care is usually covered under health insurance plans in Israel. However, the type and amount of coverage offered varies depending on the plan. For instance, some plans may offer more extensive coverage for inpatient mental health care than for outpatient care. Additionally, many plans require patients to pay a certain percentage of the cost of their mental health care services.

19. What is the process for filing an insurance claim for medical treatment received by a U.S citizen or green card holder in Israel?

The process for filing an insurance claim for medical treatment received by a U.S citizen or green card holder in Israel depends on the type of insurance coverage they have. Generally, the first step is to contact the insurer and provide information about the treatment and its costs, as well as any receipts and medical documentation. The insurer will then review the information and determine if the expenses are covered. If the costs are covered, then the insurer will provide instructions on how to file a claim. The claim may need to be filed with the insurer in the United States, with the provider in Israel, or both. The insurer may also require additional documents or information before approving the claim.

20. How does the cost of healthcare compare with other countries for U.S citizens and green card holders visiting or living in Israel?

The cost of healthcare for U.S citizens and green card holders visiting or living in Israel can vary greatly. Private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare in Israel, so it is important to consider all available options. The average cost of medical care in Israel is higher than most other countries, but the quality of care is considered to be very high. Additionally, some insurance plans may cover the cost of care in Israel, so it is important to check with your insurance provider before making any decisions.