A New Chapter: The Nefesh B’Nefesh UK MedEx Event and the Future of Medical Aliyah
In late September, a significant gathering took place in northwest London, where over 100 doctors convened for the inaugural Nefesh B’Nefesh UK MedEx event. This gathering marked a pivotal moment for many medical professionals seeking to make aliyah, or immigrate to Israel, as part of the International Medical Aliyah Program. This initiative aims to streamline the aliyah process for doctors, with a goal of bringing 2,000 Jewish physicians to Israel over the next five years.
A Collaborative Effort
The International Medical Aliyah Program is a collaborative effort led by the Aliyah and Integration Ministry, the Health Ministry, and Nefesh B’Nefesh, with support from various organizations including the Jewish Agency, the Development of the Negev and Galilee, the National Resilience Ministry, the Marcus Foundation, the Gottesman Foundation, and the Jewish Federation of North America. This multifaceted approach underscores the urgency of addressing Israel’s impending medical shortage, particularly in underserved regions like the Negev and Galilee.
Addressing the Medical Shortage
At the event, Nefesh B’Nefesh co-founders Tony Gelbart and Rabbi Yehoshua Fass emphasized the importance of the MedEx initiative in tackling the medical workforce crisis in Israel. “For the last eight years, we created MedEx, which helps individuals facilitate and process their licensing even before they become citizens,” said Fass. This program has successfully brought an average of 100 doctors to Israel annually, providing them with the tools and resources needed to transition smoothly into the Israeli healthcare system.
Gelbart highlighted the organization’s commitment to helping these doctors and their families fulfill their dreams of living in Israel. “We’re going to help them facilitate their move to Israel and fulfill their dreams,” he stated, reinforcing the notion that this journey is not just about relocation, but about thriving in a new environment.
Comprehensive Support for Future Olim
Dr. Efrat Aflalo, head of the Physicians Directorate at the Aliyah and Integration Ministry, elaborated on the support provided to prospective olim (immigrants). Before making aliyah, doctors receive assistance with documentation and accreditation, as well as opportunities to begin learning professional Hebrew. Once in Israel, their specialties are matched with suitable employment opportunities, ensuring a smoother transition into the workforce.
The event also placed a special emphasis on attracting doctors to the Negev and Galilee, regions that are in dire need of medical professionals. Aflalo noted that those specializing in certain fields and willing to work in Gaza border communities or the Negev and Galilee could qualify for incentive grants, further encouraging their relocation.
A Ministerial Perspective
Aliyah and Integration Minister Ofir Sofer attended the event, expressing optimism about the increasing interest from UK doctors in making aliyah. “Even in times of war and challenging times for the State of Israel, we are witnessing the interest of dozens of doctors to make aliyah and join the medical system,” he remarked. Sofer highlighted a growing trend of aliyah from the UK, which the ministry is actively encouraging.
Opportunities and Experiences at MedEx
Throughout the MedEx event, attendees were provided with valuable guidance and resources. Representatives from various Israeli hospitals and health providers set up booths to explain employment opportunities and conduct interviews. This hands-on approach allowed doctors to begin the process of certifying their documents and transferring their licenses, making the transition to Israel more manageable.
Michael Markiewicz, a London-based pediatrician in his 60s, shared his aspirations of moving to Israel within the next two years. He described the event as “easy” and “well organized,” affirming his belief that Israel is “the only place for a Jew to live.” Markiewicz’s sentiments reflect a growing concern among many Jewish professionals in the UK regarding their future, particularly in light of the current political climate.
Personal Stories of Aspiration
The event showcased a variety of personal stories, each reflecting a unique journey towards aliyah. A doctor originally from South Africa, now residing in London, expressed his desire to move to Zichron Ya’acov and open a Terem urgent care center. He praised the efficiency of the MedEx process, stating, “I’ve managed to get through this whole process within an hour, saving myself many months of anguish.”
Ayelet Besso-Cowan, a recent medical school graduate, is eager to move to Israel next August to join her family. She emphasized the importance of the information provided at the event, which helped her prepare for the transition. “It’s really great that they’re bringing it [MedEx] to other countries,” she noted, highlighting the convenience of having all necessary resources in one place.
The Impact of Current Events
The ongoing conflict in Israel has undoubtedly influenced many doctors’ decisions to make aliyah. Besso-Cowan, who experienced the sirens in Jerusalem firsthand, shared her feelings of discomfort in the UK, stating, “Since October, how comfortable I feel here has gone down a lot.” For her, the desire to join her family in Israel has become a pressing priority.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
The Nefesh B’Nefesh UK MedEx event represents a significant step forward in addressing the medical workforce shortage in Israel while fulfilling the dreams of many Jewish doctors. With comprehensive support and resources, these professionals are not only making a physical move but are also embracing a new chapter in their lives. As the program continues to evolve, it holds the promise of enriching Israel’s healthcare system and fostering a vibrant community of medical professionals dedicated to serving their homeland.