Israeli ICU Doctor Works Night Shifts Remotely for US Hospitals from Ra'anana Office
An intensive care physician based in Ra'anana, Israel, manages remote night shifts for five to six ICU departments across various hospitals in the United States. Her role primarily involves continuous patient data monitoring, providing guidance to nursing staff, and maintaining communication with hospital teams, patients, and their families via video calls. Physical examinations are conducted by on-site doctors and nurses who act as her eyes and hands.
Originally from Romania, she studied medicine there before specializing and working in the US for 18 years, mostly in intensive care. She moved to Israel in 2014 to join her partner Dino, whom she reconnected with after childhood in Romania. She continues working with American hospitals due to familiarity with the work environment and English, and because night shifts align better with her family schedule. The US night shift corresponds to 3:00 AM to 3:00 PM Israeli time.
She works 12 shifts monthly, avoiding more than two consecutive nights, and sleeps five hours at the Ra'anana office before starting her 12-hour shift. The office setup includes multiple screens for communication, and strict confidentiality requires working from the office rather than home. Despite the demanding schedule and limited sleep, she manages her rest carefully, using eye masks and earplugs to block out noise.
She acknowledges missing physical interaction with patients and staff but has adapted to the remote model. After intense shifts, she prioritizes rest and family time, engaging in activities like meals, games, and walks. She uses mental techniques to manage stress and prevent intrusive thoughts before sleep. Her personal life includes caring for her nine-year-old son, Niki, and maintaining a connection to her family through symbolic items like a doctor monkey doll given by her son.
Looking ahead, she dreams of revisiting cherished moments from her youth and values the balance between her demanding remote work and family life.
