Israeli Transport Ministry Advances Accessible Transit Link to Ichilov Medical Center

The Israeli Ministry of Transport is advancing plans to create an accessible and efficient public transportation connection to Tel Aviv's Ichilov Medical Center. On July 7, 2026, Ministry Director-General Moshe Ben-Zaken met with Ichilov CEO Prof. Eli Sprecher and Tel Aviv Metro CEO Itamar Ben Meir to discuss solutions facilitating access for millions of patients, accompanying persons, and medical staff who visit the hospital annually.

Ben-Zaken emphasized the policy of Transport Minister Miri Regev to prioritize connectivity to medical centers, especially for patients with disabilities and healthcare teams. Ichilov currently occupies about 300,000 square meters and is undergoing significant expansion, expected to double its size and add 400 beds within three years. The hospital treats around two million patients yearly, with total annual entries including staff and visitors reaching approximately ten million.

Future plans include constructing a 24-story tower housing a proton radiation center for tumor treatment, scheduled to open in 2028. Ben Meir presented engineering options for linking the hospital to nearby public transit stations, such as building a tunnel or an accessible bridge, while addressing planning and land ownership challenges involving the Defense Ministry and Israel Land Authority.

Following the meeting, Ben-Zaken instructed the formation of a joint professional team to develop a comprehensive transportation master plan for Ichilov. The team will explore solutions to ease access for patients, companions, and staff, ensuring full integration with public transit. Regular follow-up meetings will monitor progress.

Minister Regev highlighted that connecting hospitals to public transportation is integral to the accessibility revolution, citing similar projects at Hadassah Ein Kerem and Sheba Medical Center. Ben-Zaken noted that for patients facing complex illnesses, transportation is a life-saving issue, underscoring the ministry's commitment to practical, accessible solutions. Prof. Sprecher stressed that efficient transit access is essential for Ichilov's continued growth and ability to provide quality care to millions annually.