THE FUTURE OF HOSPITALS IN ISRAEL: GOVERNANCE,AUTONOMY, AND POLICY DIRECTIONS(UPDATED 2024)

This paper examines the future of hospitals in Israel in the context of ongoing debates about governance, autonomy, and separation from the Ministry of Health. Building on decades of partial reforms, the paper provides an updated analysis for 2024, reflecting post-COVID-19 challenges, workforce shortages, and digital health integration. Key findings indicate that while broad consensus exists on the need for greater hospital autonomy, structural, financial, and political barriers persist. Policy implications include corporatization within the public sector, strengthening governance mechanisms, and ensuring equitable access across regions.