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Israel begins to Regulate Physician Associates with Medical Professions bill and invites US trained PAs to apply for licensure to practice medicine in Israel
In a significant development for Israel’s healthcare system the physician assistant (PA) is now included as a recognized medical professional in the Medical Professions Regulation Law, 5768-2008 (Hebrew). PAs in Israel have been brought under regulation through Amendment No. 8 of the law, which will took effect on August 7th, 2024. In accordance with the law, physician associates will be allowed to conduct various medical procedures, as determined by specialist physicians.
In addition, the Ministry of Health has announced that it is now accepting applications from U.S.-trained physician associates/assistants to practice medicine in the country. This move aims to address the growing demand for medical professionals and enhance the quality of healthcare services nationwide.
The integration of PAs into Israel’s medical framework began in 2016, with the Ministry of Health launching specialized training programs to incorporate this role into emergency departments. These initiatives were part of a broader strategy to improve emergency medical services and alleviate the burden on physicians.
Initially, the focus was on training existing medical professionals, such as paramedics and foreign-trained MDs, to become PAs within the Israeli medical system. The first course commenced in May 2016, primarily targeting experienced paramedics and a few international medical graduates.
The recent decision to regulate PAs as a medical profession and accept applications from U.S.-trained PAs marks a significant expansion of this initiative. U.S.-trained PAs interested in practicing in Israel are encouraged to apply through the Ministry of Health’s official channels to demonstrate competence. This includes graduating from a Master PA program which is accredited in their home country and may require passing an Israel PA national exam.
This development not only offers new opportunities for American PAs but also promises to strengthen Israel’s healthcare system by leveraging the expertise of internationally trained professionals. PAs and comparable health professions from other countries, who are included in the category of clinical practitioners, or termed by the International Labour Organisation as paramedical practitioners, are also encouraged to apply with the Israel Ministry of Health for consideration for licensure as the list of countries for acceptance of internationally trained PAs will be expanding.
As Israel continues to evolve its healthcare landscape, the inclusion of PAs is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing patient care and addressing the challenges posed by a growing and aging population.
By Scott Smalley, IAPAE Immediate Past President
