Clalit Health Services

Clalit Health Services is the largest of four health maintenance organizations (HMOs) that provide health care services in Israel. Established in 1911, Clalit operates over 1,500 primary care clinics and 14 hospitals, serving more than half of Israel's population.

History

Clalit Health Services was founded in 1911 by the Histadrut, the General Federation of Laborers in the Land of Israel. Initially, it was a mutual aid society for Jewish workers, but it expanded over time to become the largest HMO in Israel.

Services

Clalit provides a wide range of health care services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and pharmacy services. It also offers health promotion and disease prevention programs, and operates research and training facilities.

Organization

Clalit is a not-for-profit organization, governed by a board of directors that includes representatives of the Histadrut, the government, and the public. It is funded by a combination of government subsidies, member contributions, and revenues from its own operations.

Impact

Clalit plays a significant role in Israel's health care system. It serves more than half of the country's population, and its hospitals and clinics are a major provider of health care services. Clalit also contributes to health care research and training in Israel.

Criticism

Like other HMOs, Clalit has been criticized for its bureaucracy and for delays in providing care. However, it has also been praised for its comprehensive services and for its efforts to improve care quality.

See also

• Health care in Israel
• Health maintenance organization
• Histadrut