Israeli Government Approves Major Reform for IDF and Security Forces Injury Rehabilitation

The Israeli government approved a comprehensive reform of the rehabilitation system for injured soldiers and security personnel, transforming the Rehabilitation Division into a National Authority within the Ministry of Defense. This decision follows recommendations from the public committee led by Professor Mor Yosef and aims to enhance independence and significantly increase staffing levels.

The reform includes the addition of 280 new positions for social workers and therapists over three years, improving the current ratio of one social worker per 750 patients. Despite the Defense Ministry's request for a budget of two billion shekels annually due to the expected doubling of injured personnel, the government approved a budget of one billion shekels per year.

A new "point of contact" model will assign each injured individual a dedicated professional to coordinate all rights and services. An automated system will integrate data between the National Authority, National Insurance Institute, health funds, and government ministries to streamline benefit claims without requiring injured persons to submit applications.

Medical recognition processes and committees will be expedited by proactive data collection, recruitment of additional doctors, and the use of artificial intelligence tools to reduce waiting times and minimize the need for physical appearances before medical boards. Digital services will be enhanced with smart chatbots and personalized portals to update beneficiaries on their entitlements.

The reform also addresses mental health by establishing a dedicated headquarters for mental injury cases, expanding treatment options including alternative therapies and supportive housing for those with complex conditions. Special attention will be given to female injured soldiers, severe brain injury cases, and lone soldiers. Eligibility for mental health treatments and training will also extend to family members supporting the injured throughout rehabilitation.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the reform's goal to remove barriers, shorten queues, expand services, and ensure all injured personnel can fully exercise their rights, calling it a moral and national duty. Defense Minister Israel Katz described the reform as historic, fundamentally changing Israel's approach to injured soldiers. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called it a major revolution in care and support for national heroes.