IDF Terror Attack Survivor Denied Long-Term Care Insurance, Blocking Kibbutz Membership

Oren David, 46, a resident of a kibbutz in the Gaza envelope region and a survivor of the October 7 terror attack, was recently denied long-term care insurance by Harel Insurance, which manages the policy for Clalit Health Services. This denial prevents Oren and his wife Shari from becoming full members of their kibbutz, as holding such insurance is a mandatory economic condition for membership. While Shari was accepted for the insurance, Oren, who has a 68% permanent disability rating from a 2017 work accident and was recognized as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the terror attack, was rejected despite completing full rehabilitation and currently working as a project manager.

The family fled their home during the October 7 attack, with Shari recounting that their vehicle was fired upon while escaping. The insurance refusal letter cited Oren's medical history as increasing the statistical risk of a claim compared to a healthy individual. The private long-term care insurance market closed to new members in 2019, leaving health funds as the only option, so rejection effectively means no coverage. Switching health funds is not seen as a solution due to no guarantee another insurer would accept Oren.

Their lawyer, Mark Leyzerovitch, condemned the insurance companies for seeking excuses to deny rights to victims like Oren and vowed to fight the decision through regulatory bodies and courts. Harel responded that it operates with sensitivity and responsibility according to policy terms and law, does not categorically exclude PTSD sufferers, and cannot comment on individual cases due to medical confidentiality.

The insurance requirement aims to ensure members do not become a financial burden on the kibbutz in case of future health issues. Oren’s rejection thus blocks the couple’s full integration into their community despite their efforts and circumstances.