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Rambam Health Care Campus - Hospital

Rambam Health Care Campus is a 1,000-bed teaching hospital serving more than two million people in N Welcome to Rambam Health Care Campus in Haifa, Israel.
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We will keep you informed on the latest news, research and events here at Rambam. Thank you for joining us.

12/11/2025

Dr. Ayelet Shay, director of the Breast Oncology Unit at the Joseph Fishman Oncology Center, highlights the latest global breakthroughs in breast cancer treatment presented at the 2025 European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Conference. These new drugs—already approved in several countries—are reshaping care for women with advanced and high-risk disease and could soon be included in Israel’s national health basket.

According to Dr. Shay, the past year has seen a turning point in the management of metastatic and hormone-sensitive breast cancer. New targeted drugs such as Datroway®, Trodelvy®, and Verzenio® are extending life expectancy, improving disease control, and reducing side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. “These treatments mark a real shift toward personalized care,” she says. “They target cancer cells directly while sparing healthy tissue. This translates into patients living longer with higher quality of life.”

Among the promising developments, Datroway has improved survival in women whose cancer stopped responding to hormonal therapy, while Trodelvy offers a major advance for those with triple-negative breast cancer. Verzenio, already available in Israel, has proven to reduce recurrence risk in early-stage, high-risk patients and is now considered a new global standard of care.

Dr. Shay also noted encouraging trial results for Giredestrant, an experimental Roche therapy that could help patients whose tumors developed resistance to existing hormonal treatments.

“These innovative drugs represent a new era of precision medicine in oncology,” emphasizes Dr. Shay. “However, to make them accessible to all patients, Israel’s health budget must expand to keep pace with the rapid progress seen worldwide.”

10/11/2025

Low-cost cosmetic procedures abroad, in Turkey, Thailand, or Eastern Europe, may seem appealing, but an increasing number of Israelis are returning with severe, even life-threatening complications caused by flying too soon after surgery.

In recent weeks, three Israeli women were hospitalized in serious condition at Rambam Health Care Campus after undergoing aesthetic procedures overseas and boarding flights home just days later.

“We are treating patients with infections, open wounds, and tissue damage, some requiring multiple surgeries,” says Prof. Assaf Zeltzer, Director of Rambam’s Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

A joint study by Rambam and the Rappaport Faculty of Medicine at the Technion, led by Dr. Yoav Pikkel and Prof. Zeltzer, found that flight conditions such as low air pressure and reduced oxygen levels can critically disrupt blood supply to healing tissues, leading to necrosis, wound reopening, graft failure, and dangerous blood clots.

Another Rambam study, published in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, reviewed 56 Israeli patients hospitalized after cosmetic surgeries abroad:
• 91% were women (average age 37)
• 59% had open sutures
• 48% suffered severe infections
• 20% required further operations
Half of all bacterial cultures revealed antibiotic-resistant strains, endangering both patients and caregivers.

“Even a smooth surgery can turn dangerous mid-flight,” warns Prof. Zeltzer. “The body is still in recovery mode, and flying alters internal pressures, increases swelling, and may cause blood clots, sometimes with fatal outcomes.”

These findings will be presented at the annual conference of the Israeli Society of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery.
Prof. Zeltzer concludes:
“Plastic surgery is real medicine. No aesthetic result is worth risking your life.”

27/10/2025

Multidisciplinary Internal Medicine Day Hospitalization Center

Rambam Health Care Campus has inaugurated a state-of-the-art Internal Medicine Day Hospitalization Center, featuring 14 advanced treatment stations and providing ambulatory care across several specialties, including Neurology, Pain Management, Liver Diseases, and soon Gastroenterology.

Designed for patients who do not require full hospitalization, the center enables them to receive infusions, medical supervision, and diagnostic procedures under close professional oversight. It operates two daily shifts to ensure continuous, high-quality care.

🧠 The initiative was led by Rambam’s Department of Neurology, headed by Dr. Shahar Shelly, who identified the opportunity to introduce a new care model. Under the direction of Dr. Alla Shifrin, Rambam’s Neurology Day Hospitalization Unit now brings together advanced services in neuroimmunology, neuromuscular disorders, cognitive neurology, and headache management, all under one roof.

“Neurology is advancing rapidly, with innovative treatments now available for patients who once had no options,” says Dr. Shelly. “Through this multidisciplinary center, patients receive the same high standard of care without extended hospitalization, while maintaining continuity and quality.”

👩‍⚕️ The new center reflects Rambam’s broader strategic vision: improving patient experience, reducing inpatient burden, shortening waiting times, and ensuring access to advanced medical care, all within a modern, patient-centered ambulatory setting.

23/10/2025

Rambam Honors the Azrieli Family

Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Azrieli Foundation Pediatric Rehabilitation Center

Rambam Health Care Campus celebrated a moving milestone with the Azrieli Foundation, breaking ground for the new Azrieli Foundation Pediatric Rehabilitation Center-a first ofits kind facility in Northern Israel.

Thanks to a $7.2 million donation from the Azrieli Foundation to the Canadian Friends of Rambam Medical Center, this stateof the art centerset to open in spring 2026-will provide vital rehabilitation services for children recovering from illness, injury, or trauma, close to home.

At the ceremony, Danna, Naomi, and Sharon Azrieli received the Rambam Award in recognition of their visionary philanthropy and their profound impact on medicine, science, and society.

“This center stands as a beacon of resilience and renewal for Israel’s children,” said Danna Azrieli, Chairwoman of the Azrieli Group.
“We are proud to help ensure every child has access to the care they deserve,” added Dr. Naomi Azrieli, Chair and CEO of the Azrieli Foundation.

Professor Miki Halberthal, Director General of Rambam, expressed heartfelt gratitude:
“This transformational gift fulfills a long-held dream-bringing specialized pediatric rehabilitation to Israel’s North.”

The Azrieli Foundation

21/10/2025

The 2025 Nobel Prize in Medicine was awarded to Prof. Shimon Sakaguchi, Prof. Mary E. Brunkow, and Dr. Fred Ramsdell for uncovering regulatory T cells - the body’s peacekeepers that prevent the immune system from attacking itself.

Their discovery changed how we understand the immune system’s delicate balance between defense and tolerance - fighting infections while protecting our own tissues.

At Rambam Health Care Campus, this principle guides everyday medicine.
Dr. Idit Lahover-Rot, Director of the Allergy and Clinical Immunology Unit, explains:

“Immune tolerance allows the body to live in harmony with itself. When it fails, we see autoimmune diseases, allergies, and transplant rejection.”

The immune system has two main arms:
⚡ Innate immunity – the first, quick, non-specific response.
🎯 Adaptive immunity - involving T and B cells that learn and remember specific threats.

“B cells produce antibodies to mark invaders,” says Dr. Lahover-Rot, “while T cells, especially regulatory ones, act as supervisors - ensuring the immune response stays focused and controlled.”

When this control fails, the body may turn against itself.
Autoimmune diseases, allergies, and transplant rejection are all signs of lost balance.

Thanks to these Nobel-winning discoveries, scientists now understand how regulatory cells act like the body’s brake system, calming unnecessary or harmful immune activity.

“These insights,” notes Dr. Lahover-Rot, “led to biological treatments that target immune signals - the foundation of today’s autoimmune therapies.”

The same principles guide cancer immunotherapy, where the immune system is trained to destroy tumors without harming healthy tissue.

As Dr. Lahover-Rot reminds us:

“The immune system isn’t just a weapon - it’s an orchestra that must play in harmony.” 🎻

17/10/2025

Two Years Since the Swords of Iron War Began
Yesterday, hundreds gathered at Rambam Health Care Campus to remember, commemorate, and mourn the events of Israel’s longest war — the Swords of Iron War.

The ceremony opened with the lowering of the Israeli flag to half-mast.
Professor Michael Halberthal, Rambam’s Director General — completing his term at the end of October — spoke about the dedication, burden, and resilience demonstrated by Rambam staff through years of national crises: wars, military operations, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rambam, too, has known sorrow.
With heavy hearts, we remembered our fallen heroes — the beloved sons of Rambam employees:
Captain Ilay Gavriel Atedgi, Sergeant Yoav Daniel, Police Superintendent Alexei Shmekalov, Lieutenant Colonel (Res.) Netanel Yaakov Elkouby, and Sergeant First Class Adi Eldor.

Tears filled the eyes of all present as Dr. Liron Eldor, a physician in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, spoke about his son Adi z”l, who served in the elite Maglan unit and fell in combat in Gaza.
Rachel Tzarfati, mother of Ofir z”l — abducted from the Nova Festival and whose body was recovered in a military operation — shared her son’s story, filling the air with emotion, pain, and hope.

Professor Halberthal concluded with a call to heal the deep divisions within Israeli society — a necessary step toward national recovery.

In this war, 918 soldiers fell, 1,169 civilians were murdered, nearly 30,000 were physically wounded, and countless others still carry invisible scars.

16/09/2025

Rambam celebrated its achievements, innovations, and vision at the inspiring annual Rambam Summit 2025 Gala.

Amidst applause and tears of emotion, the prestigious Rambam Award was presented to four exceptional honorees:
🏅 Prof. Aaron Ciechanover – Nobel Laureate in Chemistry
🏅 Ariela Wertheimer – Artist and philanthropist known for her generosity and impact
🏅 The Israeli Navy – For their extraordinary support, notably operating the Underground Hospital
🏅 Prof. Miki Halberthal – Outgoing Director General of Rambam, who led the hospital through seven years of challenges and growth

The evening was attended by public figures, donors, and supporters from Israel and around the world, alongside patients whose lives were saved at Rambam and who shared their personal stories, moving and inspiring the audience.

Rambam continues to lead medicine in Northern Israel and across the country—through care, research, and a vision for the future.

✨ We look forward to welcoming you at Rambam Summit 2026! ✨

09/09/2025

Congratulations to Dr. Michal Mekel, who has been appointed Director of Rambam Health Care Campus – the largest and only tertiary medical center in Northern Israel.

Dr. Mekel, 52, a senior surgeon and leader in the field of endocrine surgery, has served as Deputy Director since 2017, and is now the first woman to hold this position at Rambam.
Her career has developed at Rambam – from her medical studies at the Technion, through her residency in general surgery, to senior leadership roles where she managed the Quality and Safety Division, led the hospital during emergencies and wars, and headed an Israeli delegation to a field hospital in Ukraine.

Dr. Mekel said: “I thank the Ministry of Health and the members of the selection committee for choosing me, and for granting me the privilege of leading Rambam in the coming years. Rambam is home to me – the place where I grew and was trained professionally. I am proud to be part of its legacy of excellence. Looking forward, together with the entire Rambam family, I intend to continue advancing the medical campus to new heights.”

The Rambam family wishes you great success on this new journey! 💜

02/09/2025

Rambam on the Global Stage – Leading the Fight Against Lung Cancer

Every five years, the international clinical guidelines for lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, are updated.

This year, Prof. Alona Zer, Director of Medical Oncology at Rambam Health Care Campus, was chosen to lead an international team of top oncologists responsible for writing the new guidelines.

📊 Lung cancer is responsible for over 2.2 million new cases annually across the globe, with smoking and air pollution among the main risk factors.

Prof. Zer shared insights into the year-long process of international collaboration:
"Despite the difficult events unfolding in Israel at the time, I felt no tension or challenges working with my international colleagues on this important mission."

✨ This historic achievement places Rambam and Israel at the forefront of global oncology, shaping medical standards that will impact the lives of millions worldwide.

📖 Read more about this achievement (article in Hebrew) 👉 https://bit.ly/4n95hTO

01/09/2025

When a Common Drug Becomes a Rare Danger

At 77, Ami Dvorat was living life to the fullest—traveling, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors. Then, suddenly, everything changed. He grew weaker by the day, struggling to walk, climb, or even swallow. Friends were worried, and Ami feared the worst.

After being referred to Rambam Health Care Campus, Ami’s case reached the Department of Neurology, where Dr. Shahar Shelly—an international expert in rare neuromuscular diseases—identified the surprising cause: a rare autoimmune reaction triggered by a cholesterol-lowering drug (statin) Ami had been taking for years.

This condition, called immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy, is extremely rare but life-threatening. It can damage muscles essential for movement, breathing, and even heart function. Quick recognition and advanced treatment made all the difference.

“Fortunately, Ami was diagnosed in time and we could act fast,” says Dr. Shelly. “Today, he is back on his feet, walking, traveling, and doing what he loves most.”

Ami adds with a smile: “I’ve returned to my field trips and outdoor adventures—I feel like myself again.”

24/08/2025

🚨 Paracetamol Overdose Nearly Costs Toddler Her Life

A routine fever treatment nearly turned tragic for 3-year-old Emily (name changed), who was rushed to Rambam’s Ruth Rappaport Children’s Hospital after receiving three times the recommended dose of paracetamol (acetaminophen) for several days.

At Rambam’s Cheryl Spencer Pediatric Emergency Department, Dr. Mariana Moltedo led the team in stabilizing Emily. Later, Dr. Nadav Shalev Spokone uncovered the overdose during a detailed parental interview. Tests revealed acute liver failure, and Emily was moved to the Wagner Green Pediatric Intensive Care Unit.

🔬 Why it happened
Paracetamol is safe when dosed correctly, but in high amounts—even over just a few days—it can overwhelm the liver and cause irreversible damage. Early symptoms (vomiting, fever, confusion) often mimic viral illness, delaying diagnosis. More severe signs—jaundice, bleeding, or altered consciousness—usually appear 3–5 days later.

👩‍⚕️ Rambam experts warn:
✅ Use only one fever-reducing medication at a time.
✅ Follow exact dosage and intervals; consult a pediatrician for age/weight-based dosing.
✅ Use the measuring tool provided with the medicine.
✅ Never exceed the maximum daily dose.
✅ Seek medical help for persistent high fever or concerning symptoms.

Prof. Ronen Arnon, head of Rambam’s Pediatric Liver Gastroenterology & Nutrition Institute:
“Paracetamol poisoning is among the most common poisonings. Delay in treatment can leave liver transplant as the only option.”

Dr. Yael Lurie, director of Israel’s National Poison Information Center at Rambam:
“Even over-the-counter medications must be given with caution. Keep your local poison center’s number handy—it could save a life.”

Emily has since been transferred to another hospital for monitoring ahead of a possible transplant. Her story is a powerful reminder: the right dose makes the difference between healing and harm.

Address

Ha'aliyah Street 8
Haifa
31096

Telephone

+97247773568

Website

https://www.rambam.org.il/en/

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More About Rambam HCC

Rambam Health Care Campus (HCC) is a 1,000-bed academic hospital serving approximately 25% of Israel’s population. Strategically located in Haifa on the Mediterranean coast, it is the tertiary referral center for 12 district hospitals, the Israel Defense Forces Northern Command, the United States 6th Fleet, and the United Nations forces stationed in the region.

The exclusive comprehensive trauma treatment provider for Northern Israel, Rambam is also renowned for world-class medicine, basic and applied medical research, mass casualty and trauma education, and clinical innovations. Tight medical research collaborations between Rambam and leading academic and industrial organizations are contributing to the advancement of medicine worldwide.

Medical Excellence

Equaling standards of medical practice in the United States, Rambam is one of Israel’s premiere hospitals, renowned for its world-class medical care and research worldwide. The Rambam campus includes a main hospital and a separate children’s hospital, and an oncology hospital—in total 36 inpatient departments, 54 specialty departments, 10 medical institutes, and 9 central laboratories. Rambam’s medical teams are world renown for their expertise in oncology, hemato-oncology, cardiac surgery, orthopedic, and neurosurgery.

Safety and Security

Given the realities of Rambam’s geographic location, the safety and security of patients and staff is of utmost importance. Hence, Rambam is home to the world’s largest fortified underground emergency hospital—fortified against conventional and unconventional warfare. A 1,500-car parking lot in peacetime, the facility converts into a 2,000-bed fully equipped hospital within 72 hours in time of need.

Cutting-Edge Medical Innovation

Rambam MedTech Ltd. is the technology transfer company of Rambam Health Care Campus, authorized to handle all innovations and intellectual properties (IP) generated by Rambam physicians and scientists. Through Rambam MedTech, Rambam is a partner in a new a government sponsored digital medicine technological incubator, MindUp. Rambam is serving as the clinical and research partner together with industry giants, IBM Watson Health and Medtronics, and technology investors Pitango and Impact First.

Israel is recognized worldwide as the startup nation. Hence it should be no surprise that several startups have been established as the direct result of Rambam research, including Novogate, Neurokeeper, and FNA Technologies, Ltd.

A Collaborative Hub for Innovative Technology

As a center of medical excellence with extensive innovative activities, Rambam has long been a hub for collaborations between entrepreneurial physicians, engineers, and researchers to create new medical technologies.

Uniquely positioned to integrate clinical care, research, education and innovation, Rambam provides an innovative clinical environment where scientific discovery intertwines with patient care. The result has been cooperation with a number of hi-tech companies that led to development of paradigm-changing medical technologies such as the PillCam™ (Given Imaging); Spect/CT (GE Global healthcare); and the CARTO™ System (Biosense Webster, Ltd., a Johnson & Johnson Company).