New Study Reveals Alarming Exodus of Israeli Doctors

A recent study from Tel Aviv University has revealed a significant increase in the number of Israeli doctors leaving the country, with nearly 1,370 physicians departing for at least a year between 2023 and 2025. This figure represents a 94% surge compared to the preceding decade, when only 705 doctors left during a similar period. The trend affects all medical specialties and regions across Israel.

The research, conducted by Professors Itai Ater and Netai Bergman along with doctoral student Doron Zamir, utilized data from the Central Bureau of Statistics, population registries, and occupational licensing files. While acknowledging that some doctors leave for temporary specialized training or research and may return, the study highlights the worrying rise in long-term absences. "The departure of so many doctors translates directly into longer waits, less effective medical treatment, and ultimately, a severe blow to our quality of life," stated Professor Ater.

Alarmingly, the proportion of experienced doctors, aged 45 and above, among those leaving has increased to over 20%, up from approximately 14% a decade ago. In the last three years, 281 doctors in this age group departed, suggesting their reasons may extend beyond temporary training.

Pediatrics, ophthalmology, dermatology, and ENT specialists showed the highest departure rates, accounting for 6.2% of those leaving, followed by surgeons at 6%. Among those under 60, ophthalmologists, dermatologists, ENT specialists, and surgeons also showed high emigration rates. Internal medicine also saw significant departures, with 215 doctors leaving, representing 3.9% of all internists in Israel.

Geographically, the Tel Aviv district reported the highest number of departing doctors, with 429 leaving, or 5.4% of the district's physicians. The Central district followed with 290 departures. Even after accounting for returning doctors, Israel lost an estimated 509 physicians between 2023 and 2024, a fivefold increase compared to the annual average of 54 between 2010 and 2019. Researchers warn this trend could compromise the quality of medical services and the training of future doctors.