Reichman University Opens School of Medicine to Address Israel’s Doctor Shortage

On Tuesday, the Council for Higher Education (CHE) approved the establishment of the Dina Recanati School of Medicine at Reichman University, marking a significant step in addressing Israel’s growing shortage of healthcare professionals. The decision followed an in-depth review by the Halevi Committee, which concluded that the program met all necessary requirements. The first cohort of approximately 80 students is expected to begin their studies in February 2025, with additional classes set to open in November 2025.

A Collaborative Initiative to Strengthen Israel's Healthcare System

The new medical school has been founded with a generous donation from the Dina and Rafael Recanati Family Foundation and is the result of a collaborative effort between several leading Israeli medical institutions, including Sheba Medical Center, *Rabin Medical Center, Clalit Health Services, and Maccabi Healthcare Services. The initiative was launched in response to a longstanding concern about the shortage of doctors in Israel. According to Prof. Arnon Afek, the founding dean of the Dina Recanati School of Medicine, Israel needs approximately 2,000 new doctors annually, yet the country currently trains only half that number. This gap is expected to widen in the coming years, making the creation of new medical training opportunities crucial.

The university has invested in state-of-the-art medical simulation facilities to enhance students' practical skills. These facilities include advanced equipment such as bedside ultrasound tools, imaging systems, a virtual reality lab, and other research laboratories designed to provide hands-on experience in a range of medical practices.

A Vision for the Future of Medicine in Israel

Prof. Uriel Reichman, the founder of Reichman University, expressed his pride in the institution's expansion into the medical field, stating that the new faculty will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of healthcare in Israel.

“Reichman University has always been at the forefront of expanding higher education opportunities in Israel. We are excited to contribute to the training of the next generation of doctors and researchers,” said Prof. Reichman.

Competing Institutions and the Growing Need for Medical Professionals

While Reichman University has already secured CHE approval for its new medical school, other institutions are following suit. The Weizmann Institute and the University of Haifa are both awaiting approval to establish their own medical faculties. The Weizmann Institute is in the advanced stages of approval, with a focus on clinical research within its medical curriculum.

The government’s push to expand medical education is part of a broader strategy to increase the number of medical students in Israel to 2,000 per year over the next five years. This initiative comes in response to warnings from the Health Ministry about the growing shortage of doctors, which is expected to worsen as the population ages and demand for medical services increases.