Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov)
Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov)
Israel, Tel Aviv
Naftali Shtern
51 years of experience
Clinic is certified :
| Israel | Turkey | Austria | |
| Stem cell for diabetes | ≈ $12,000 | ≈ $12,000 | ≈ $9,000 |
| Metabolic surgery | ≈ $12,500 | from $4,100 | ≈ $11,500 |
| Gastric band | ≈ $12,200 | from $2,800 | ≈ $14,000 |
| Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) | ≈ $1,400 | from $340 | ≈ $1,800 |
| Biliopancreatic diversion | ≈ $17,500 | from $6,000 | ≈ $16,500 |
Dr. Ilana Itzhakov specializes in diabetes treatment, with over a decade of experience at Ichilov Medical Center. She also contributes to research on new endocrine treatments.
Dr. Asaf Oren works exclusively with children at the Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital's Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit.
Dr. Vayntrub has 37 years of experience and leads the Pediatric Endocrinology Department at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center.
Prof. Naftali Shtern has led the Institute of Endocrinology at Tel Aviv Medical Center since 1988, bringing decades of specialized diabetes care.
Israel is a global leader in diabetes research, offering advanced metabolic surgery and developing experimental treatments like oral insulin and bioidentical hormone replacement. Key innovations include living cell implants for glucose regulation and AI-driven precision nutrition platforms. Patients access these via JCI-accredited centers in Tel Aviv and Haifa.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While many seek experimental drugs, Bookimed data shows high demand for established metabolic surgery at private centers like Assuta Medical Center. These procedures often provide immediate glucose control and long-term remission. For pediatric cases, Prof. Naomi Vayntrub at Sourasky Medical Center specializes in complex metabolic disorders using advanced endocrine protocols. Private surgical centers in Tel Aviv allow patients to select specific senior surgeons and private rooms, which is a significant differentiator from public research tracks.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that advanced medications like GLP-1s are highly accessible in Israel, but they recommend contacting research coordinators directly for current phase 3 pharmaceutical trials. There is a general preference for established metabolic surgeries over unproven stem cell treatments among experienced patients.
Initial type-2 diabetes evaluations in Israel include HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and lipid profile blood tests. Specialists at JCI-accredited centers like Sourasky Medical Center also conduct urinalysis for kidney function. Comprehensive screenings often incorporate retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) measurements and electrocardiograms (ECG).
Bookimed Expert Insight: While many expect focus only on blood sugar, Israel's top academic centers like Sourasky Medical Center integrate advanced diagnostics like Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer (RNFL) measurement early on. Prof. Naomi Vayntrub and other specialists use this technology to detect microscopic nerve changes before vision loss begins. This proactive approach at multidisciplinary facilities often prevents complications better than clinics focusing solely on standard HbA1c monitoring.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that HbA1c and fasting glucose are mandatory first-line tests usually performed on the same day. Many emphasize the importance of tracking your own results, as levels over 7% often lead to immediate medication adjustments.
Foreign patients in Israel access Western-standard diabetes medications and advanced delivery devices through private consultations. While over-the-counter equivalents are available, local prescriptions are mandatory for all insulin and specialized drugs. Leading centers like Sourasky Medical Center provide comprehensive endocrinology services for international visitors.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows that premier Israeli institutions like Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) handle over 1,800,000 patient visits annually, making them highly efficient at managing international pharmaceutical logistics. For those seeking specialized care, Dr. Ilana Itzhakov at Ichilov leads a dedicated training center for foreign medical staff, ensuring her team is uniquely prepared to bridge the gap between international prescriptions and local Israeli pharmacy standards.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize the need to book private endocrinology appointments before arriving to avoid long wait times. They also note that while newer drugs like Ozempic are accessible, stocking international brands can be inconsistent.
Israeli clinics integrate Halakhic religious law with medical protocols to ensure safe diabetes management during Shabbat and holidays. Healthcare providers offer pre-set insulin pumps, kosher-certified medications, and rabbinical consultations to balance spiritual obligations with glycemic control in JCI-accredited facilities like Sourasky Medical Center.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli medical centers manage a massive volume of over 1,800,000 patients annually. This scale allows clinics like Sourasky Medical Center to maintain specialized departments for both adult and pediatric diabetes. Data shows that top specialists, including Prof. Naomi Vayntrub and Prof. Naftali Shtern, often hold dual credentials from Israeli and North American institutions. This international expertise helps them design treatment plans that respect religious traditions while utilizing modern technologies like AI and digital imaging.
Patient Consensus: Patients note it is helpful when clinics offer automated insulin dispensers and gentile staff to assist with medical checks on Saturdays. Many find that urban centers effectively manage appointment timing to avoid travel conflicts with religious observances.
The Israeli nutritional strategy for type-2 diabetes focuses on Personalized Postprandial-targeting (PPT). This method uses microbiome analysis and AI algorithms to predict unique blood sugar responses to specific foods. Leading centers like Sourasky Medical Center integrate these metabolic insights to tailor diets specifically to your biological profile.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli metabolism experts often combine nutritional personalization with advanced diagnostics. Centers like Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) serve over 400,000 patients annually and offer Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer (RNFL) measurements. This ensures that while you manage your diet, specialists simultaneously monitor for early signs of diabetic complications like retinopathy.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that Israeli clinics often favor high-protein breakfasts and intermittent fasting over frequent snacking. Many find that shifting to a Mediterranean-style plate with abundant tahini and legumes helps stabilize their levels quickly.
A complete diabetes work-up and therapy adjustment in Israel typically requires 5 to 7 days in a private clinic setting. Your stay includes initial consultations, comprehensive diagnostic testing, and medication titration. Planning a 10-day buffer accounts for potential specialist coordination or treatment changes during your visit.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows that choosing major centers like Sourasky or Assuta in Tel Aviv allows for rapid multidisciplinary coordination. While general work-ups take 5 days, patients requiring bariatric or metabolic surgery consultations should plan for longer. Specialists like Dr. Ilana Itzhakov at Sourasky specifically focus on internal medicine and atherosclerosis prevention, which is vital for long-term type 2 management.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that private clinics compress the process significantly compared to public systems. Many suggest packing for 10 days to allow for stable titration and to avoid rushing during holiday schedules.
Tel Aviv and Jerusalem house several hospitals with Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation specializing in endocrinology and diabetes. Sourasky Medical Center and Assuta Medical Center in Tel Aviv, along with Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem, provide advanced metabolic surgery and insulin therapy protocols. These facilities maintain high 90% plus patient satisfaction rates for complex endocrine care.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Sourasky Medical Center stands out for its high-volume expertise under leaders like Prof. Naftali Shtern and Prof. Naomi Vayntrub. While many look for general care, this clinic is unique because it integrates over 240 specialized departments. This allows diabetes patients to access cardiologists and ophthalmologists for retinal measurements in one location. This multidisciplinary approach is vital for managing long-term complications effectively.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that bringing full medical records is essential for faster personalized planning. Many emphasize that while costs are higher for non-residents, the access to advanced pump adjustments and metabolic clinics is life-changing.
Israel is a premier neurosurgery hub due to its fusion of high-density medical innovation and elite surgical expertise. Top facilities like Sheba Medical Center integrate AI-guided navigation and real-time intraoperative MRI. Specialized centers report 98% success rates for complex procedures including awake craniotomy and movement disorder treatments.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows a clear divide between public and private options in Israel. Private centers like Assuta Medical Center perform over 92,000 operations annually and allow patients to select their specific lead surgeon. This is a vital advantage for complex cases where a specific expert like Dr. Eli Ashkenazi is preferred for his 1,000+ spine surgery record.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize bringing original imaging on a USB for local review to streamline the surgical plan. They also note that private packages often include hotel coordination and airport transfers, making the logistics much smoother.
Israeli neurosurgeons treat a full spectrum of conditions ranging from brain and spinal tumors to complex functional disorders. Specialized centers utilize advanced technologies like Gamma Knife, deep brain stimulation, and intraoperative MRI to manage epilepsy, Parkinson disease, and cerebrovascular pathologies with high precision.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli hospitals often combine specialties to handle complex cases. At Sourasky Medical Center, neurosurgeons like Dr. Zvi Lidar bridge neurosurgery and orthopedics for spinal care. This multidisciplinary approach allows clinics to perform 34,000+ operations annually. Choosing a facility with this crossover expertise often leads to more comprehensive treatment plans for degenerative diseases.
Patient Consensus: Patients value the ability to access specialized treatments like fluorescence-guided surgery for tumors which are often unavailable elsewhere. Many note that the staff is fluent in English and provides clear communication through teleconsultations before traveling.
Israel is home to world-renowned neurosurgery centers like Sourasky Medical Center, Sheba Medical Center, and Hadassah Medical Center. These facilities are globally ranked for treating complex brain tumors, spinal disorders, and movement diseases. They utilize advanced technologies like Gamma Knife, robotic systems, and intra-operative MRI.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Our data shows that while most patients focus on Tel Aviv, Rambam Medical Center in Haifa offers unique expertise in neuro-trauma. It operates a specialized neuro-ICU and serves nearly 1 million patients annually. This makes it an essential choice for complex post-trauma brain surgeries that requires intensive recovery support.
Patient Consensus: Patients note it is important to start consultations early. They often highlight that the precision and follow-up care for complex brain tumors exceeded their expectations. One patient emphasized how quickly they could connect with top professors for second opinions during critical neurosurgical cases.
Israel's leading neurosurgeons include Prof. Zvi Ram, Prof. Shlomi Constantini, and Prof. Itzhak Fried at Sourasky Medical Center. These specialists hold leadership roles in the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies (EANS) and the World Society for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery (WSSFN). They utilize advanced intraoperative mapping and robotic systems.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data from Sourasky and Sheba indicates a strong correlation between high surgical volumes and patient safety. For example, Sourasky performs 34,000+ operations annually with a 90% oncology success rate. Patients seeking complex tumor removals should prioritize centers like these where surgeons perform hundreds of specific cases each year.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize the importance of finding a surgeon who specializes specifically in your condition rather than a generalist. Many note that high-volume centers provide better access to English-speaking staff and coordinated care for international visitors.
International neurosurgery patients in Israel must provide comprehensive medical records including recent MRI or CT scans translated into English. Admission requires a clinical review by specialists to confirm treatment feasibility. Hospitals often mandate full advance payment or a significant deposit before confirming surgery dates or issuing visa support letters.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows that top Israeli facilities like Sheba Medical Center and Hadassah Medical Center handle massive patient volumes, exceeding 1,000,000 people annually. This high demand means clinics prioritize complex or rare cases over routine procedures. Patients with unique or high-risk conditions often receive faster admission approval than those seeking standard treatments available elsewhere.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that having all imaging results ready in English is essential for quick scheduling. Many emphasize that while the medical care is excellent, coordinating around Shabbat closures is necessary to avoid unexpected diagnostic delays.
A standard stay for neurosurgery in Israel ranges from 10 to 14 days for uncomplicated cases. Patients undergoing complex procedures like brain tumor removal or deep brain stimulation often require 4 to 6 weeks. This timeline covers pre-operative diagnostics, the surgical procedure, and essential post-operative monitoring.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data from Sourasky Medical Center shows they treat over 400,000 patients annually with high success rates. Clinics with such high volumes, like Hadassah or Assuta, often have streamlined discharge protocols. This helps international patients transition to hotel-based recovery faster while maintaining access to top specialists.
Patient Consensus: Patients note it is vital not to rush home too early. Some travelers extended their stay to 3 weeks due to swelling or to ensure they received final surgeon clearance before flying.
Israeli neurosurgery uses robotic guidance, real-time 3D imaging, and incisionless technologies to minimize physical trauma. Systems like Mazor Robotics provide sub-millimeter precision for spine implants. MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) treats tremors without incisions. These advanced tools ensure high accuracy and reduce recovery times.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli clinics like Sourasky or Hadassah integrate proprietary Israeli-born technologies like Surgical Theater before they hit global markets. Our data shows these centers often use VR flight-through models for pre-surgical planning. This allows surgeons to rehearse complex cases, which is a key factor in their 90% success rates.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that technologies like the Gamma Knife allowed them to return home in days rather than weeks. Many move from traditional 10cm incisions to cuts under 2cm when using robotic-assisted systems.
Israel is a global leader in neurosurgery due to its integration of proprietary medical innovations and internationally trained specialists. High-capacity centers like Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) perform over 34,000 annual surgeries. Patients access advanced techniques like awake craniotomy and MR-guided focused ultrasound.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli neurosurgery stands out because of the high concentration of dually certified experts. Many top surgeons, such as Dr. Zvi Lidar, are certified to practice in both Israel and the USA. This ensures that patients receive American-standard surgical care while staying in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. Our data shows that private centers like Assuta offer significantly faster access to these specific specialists compared to the public system.
Patient Consensus: Patients note it is important to confirm a surgeon's specific volume of cases for your exact condition. They also value the ability to get expert second opinions quickly through online consultations with world-renowned professors.
Sheba Medical Center and Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) are among the best neurosurgery hospitals in Israel. These JCI-accredited facilities perform thousands of operations annually. They utilize advanced technologies like CyberKnife and intraoperative MRI to treat complex brain tumors and cerebrovascular lesions.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Our data shows that top Israeli centers like Sourasky and Hadassah perform over 40,000 total operations yearly. This high volume allows surgeons to maintain a 90% success rate even in complex oncology cases. Patients seeking robotic spine surgery or deep brain stimulation should focus on these high-capacity municipal centers for the most experienced teams.
Patient Consensus: Patients appreciate that some hospitals quickly coordinate consultations even during regional strikes. Families of pediatric patients especially value surgeons trained at prestigious international institutions.
Israel's leading neurosurgeons include Professor Zvi Ram, Professor Shlomi Constantini, and Professor Itzhak Fried at Sourasky Medical Center. These experts specialize in awake craniotomy, pediatric brain tumors, and functional mapping. Most hold JCI accreditation and international fellowships from institutions like Johns Hopkins and Yale.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Data shows that top-tier Israeli neurosurgeons, such as those at Sourasky Medical Center, often hold dual board certifications in Israel and the US. This unique crossover ensures patients receive American-standard protocols. These specialists typically manage over 34,000 annual operations, providing high-volume clinical experience that smaller private clinics cannot match.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that highly qualified doctors like Professor Shlomo Constantini provide satisfactory answers quickly. People emphasize that outcomes often depend on the hospital’s integrated resources rather than just a doctor's prestige.
Israel is a global leader in neurosurgery, treating complex brain and spinal conditions using robotic-assisted and minimally invasive techniques. Highly specialized units at JCI-accredited centers like Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) and Hadassah Medical Center focus on neuro-oncology, pediatric neurosurgery, and functional procedures.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Israeli neurosurgical departments often function as rapid-response hubs for international patients. Data shows that large centers like Sourasky, which serves 1,800,000 patients annually, can organize expert video consultations in a very short time. This speed is critical for neuro-oncology cases where starting treatment a few days earlier significantly impacts outcomes.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that Israeli teams often accept high-risk cases that other hospitals decline. They emphasize the importance of using local coordinators to manage travel logistics or potential local disruptions during their two-week stay.
International patients traveling to Israel for neurosurgery require a valid passport, an entry permit or medical visa, and a formal hospital invitation. You must provide recent MRI or CT scans in DICOM format and detailed medical summaries. Proof of private health insurance and financial stability are also mandatory for border entry.
Bookimed Expert Insight: Our data shows that top neurosurgeons at Hadassah Medical Center and Sourasky often request records 4–6 weeks before arrival. Submitting these early prevents appointment shifts. High-volume centers with over 30,000 annual operations have dedicated portals for secure DICOM file uploads. Using these ensures your surgeon reviews high-quality images before you land in Tel Aviv.
Patient Consensus: Patients emphasize bringing physical copies and digital backups of all scans on a USB drive. They also note that private insurance needs pre-authorization specifically for neurosurgery to avoid payment delays at the clinic.