(Times of Israel) Prof. Rafael A. Beyar - Israel is among the top countries in longevity with an average lifespan of 82.5 years as of 2016. Other countries on the longevity list - Canada, Sweden, Italy, and Japan - are tranquil, wealthy and at peace. But for Israel, confronted over its 70-year history with war and perpetual conflict, and a seven-fold increase in its population including a large and diverse immigrant base, these findings may come as a surprise. One answer is a "Mediterranean diet" high in fruit, vegetables and fish. Another is low alcohol consumption. Another quite important reason is the close family structure in Israel. But probably the single most important factor is the Israeli health care system. All its citizens receive health care services regardless of income or pre-existing health conditions. Yet Israel spends just 7.4% percent of its GDP on healthcare, compared to the U.S., which spends about 18% of its GDP while still leaving out large numbers of people. All Israeli residents are covered by one of four major health funds. Excellent public hospital care is available equally to all sectors of society. Costs are kept down through a combination of government controls, purchasing power by the health funds, incentives and competition. Israelis, who are known to complain about much, usually are complimentary about their health care. And with many now living well into their 80s, they should be. The writer is Director General and CEO of the Rambam Health Care Campus in Haifa.
2018-11-09 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive