HIV-positive residents of Israel receive the most advanced treatment from the local healthcare system, ensuring they live healthy and long lives.

We will help you obtain complete and reliable information and access to medication if needed.

Health and Medical Care

Where and how can HIV medical care be accessed in Israel, including prescriptions for antiretroviral medications?

Hospitals and Clinics:
Israel has several specialized HIV clinics operating in major hospitals such as Ichilov, Sheba (Tel HaShomer), Rambam, Hadassah Ein Kerem, and others. These clinics provide comprehensive and ongoing care for people living with HIV.
Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs):
All Israeli HMOs are required to provide antiretroviral therapy (ART) as part of the national health services. Medications are dispensed with a prescription from a specialist physician.
Initial Treatment:
You may begin by seeing a primary care physician, who will refer you to a specialized HIV clinic to initiate treatment. You may also contact the AIDS Task Force for guidance and assistance in accessing care.

What specialized services are available to people living with HIV, and are they low-cost or free?

HIV treatment is fully included in Israel’s national health coverage and is provided at no cost.
Additional Services:
Specialized hospital clinics employ social workers who support people living with HIV. In addition, the AIDS Task Force provides free emotional support for up to one year, as well as social support, professional guidance, and assistance in cases of discrimination.

Availability and Quality of Medical Tests

All people living with HIV are entitled to regular tests such as CD4 counts and viral load measurements, which are available at all specialized hospital clinics. Tests are conducted according to established protocols, and results are usually available within a few days.

Finding HIV Specialists and Accessing Initial Care

You may contact specialized hospital clinics or your HMO, which will refer you to qualified HIV specialists. Organizations such as the AIDS Task Force can also provide information and referrals.
Initial Care Process:
Treatment typically begins with a visit to a primary care physician, followed by referral to a specialized clinic or HIV specialist for continued monitoring and care.

Health Insurance

How does registration for health insurance work in Israel, and does it cover HIV treatment?

Every Israeli citizen or resident is entitled to national health insurance through one of the four HMOs (Maccabi, Clalit, Leumit, Meuhedet). This insurance covers all services defined by law, including HIV treatment.
Coverage:
National health insurance fully covers HIV-related care, including medications, tests, and additional treatments.
Additional Insurance Options and Costs
Supplementary Insurance:
In addition to national health insurance, supplementary insurance can be purchased through HMOs to provide additional coverage. However, for HIV care, the basic system already covers most required services.
Private Health Insurance:
Private insurance policies may be purchased to cover private surgeries, medications not included in the national health services, and transplants. Costs vary depending on age and medical underwriting.

Is a Special Process Required to Obtain Insurance Coverage for HIV Care?

No special application process is required, as HIV treatment is included in the national health basket.

Possible Additional Costs

Additional costs may arise if treatments or services are required that are not included in the national health services, but such situations are uncommon, especially in relation to HIV. Supplementary insurance may cover some of these costs.

Can my medical condition affect my eligibility for citizenship, and do I need to disclose it?

If you are eligible for immigration under Israel’s Law of Return, your medical condition cannot prevent you from exercising this right. There is no requirement or obligation to disclose your medical status to government authorities.

Israel has laws protecting people living with HIV from discrimination, including the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law. These laws protect the right to receive services without discrimination, including in employment, healthcare, and public services.

Organizations Providing Legal Support

The AIDS Task Force provides counseling, support, and, when necessary, legal assistance to people living with HIV.

Disclosure to Employers

In Israel, there is no obligation to disclose HIV status to potential employers unless it has a direct impact on the job in question. In practice, except for certain medical professions (where Ministry of Health approval is required for invasive procedures and is generally granted when the individual is treated and undetectable), living with HIV has no impact on employment. Disclosure may be required only if the condition affects the ability to perform the job safely and effectively.

Where can support groups and counseling services be found?

The AIDS Task Force runs support groups and provides counseling services for people living with HIV, including specialized support for those who have recently immigrated. Mental health services are also available through specialized clinics and HMOs.

Services for Emotional Support and Social Integration

The AIDS Task Force offers workshops, individual counseling, social events, and additional programs aimed at strengthening social integration.

Connecting With Local HIV Communities

You can connect with local communities through the AIDS Task Force. In addition to events, there are discreet and dedicated online spaces for connection and conversation, including the Task Force’s PLUS app for the positive community in Israel

For more information, you may contact the coordinator for HIV community support at the AIDS Task Force:
📞 +972 (0)54-320-0071