Israel's Health Basket Committee Begins 2027 Budget Discussions

The committee responsible for expanding Israel's public health services basket convened for its first session to discuss the 2027 budget, led by Health Minister Chaim Katz. The committee received over 1,000 requests for new medications and medical technologies, with a total estimated cost in the billions of shekels. The committee's allocated budget for this year is 650 million shekels.

Minister Katz emphasized the difficult decisions ahead, noting that each request represents patients and families awaiting news. He thanked the committee members, including Chairwoman Prof. Dina Ben Yehuda and Coordinator Prof. Osnat Luxenburg, for their work.

Director General of the Ministry of Health, Moshe Bar Siman Tov, described the committee's opening as a significant event reflecting the strength of the Israeli healthcare system and mutual responsibility. He highlighted the commitment to providing advanced, quality, and equitable healthcare, expressing satisfaction with the 650 million shekel budget. Bar Siman Tov acknowledged the growing challenges due to medical advancements and changing patient needs, expressing confidence that the Israeli health basket will remain comprehensive and up-to-date.

Prof. Dina Ben Yehuda, in her fifth year chairing the committee, spoke of the immense responsibility. She noted the influx of new drugs and technologies, each offering hope, but stressed the limitations of the budget. Ben Yehuda assured that every request would be thoroughly reviewed with fairness and professionalism, balancing data-driven medicine with compassion for patients' needs. She acknowledged the inherent pain of not being able to fulfill all requests but committed to maximizing the benefit of the health basket for as many Israelis as possible.