Hebrew for Medical Visits: A Survival Guide

Navigating the Israeli healthcare system is much easier when you know the basic terminology. Even if your doctor speaks English, administrative staff and pharmacists might primarily use Hebrew. This guide provides the most important words and phrases.

1. Administrative Terms

• Kupat Cholim: Health Fund (HMO).

• Tofes 17: Payment commitment form for hospitals.

• Efniya: Referral.

• Tor: Appointment.

• Mazkirut: Reception / Secretariat.

2. Common Specialists

• Rofe Mishpacha: Family Doctor (GP).

• Rofe Yeladim: Pediatrician.

• Rofe Nashim: OB/GYN.

• Rofe Shinayim: Dentist.

3. Symptoms and Complaints

• Koev li kan: It hurts here.

• Yesh li chom: I have a fever.

• Lachatz dam: Blood pressure.

• Bedikat dam: Blood test.

4. At the Pharmacy

• Beit Markacha: Pharmacy.

• Mirsham: Prescription.

• Trufa: Medication.

Useful Phrases

• "Efshar ledaber Anglit?" — Can we speak English?

• "Yesh li tor." — I have an appointment.

• "Eifo ha-ma'abada?" — Where is the lab?

Summary

Don't be afraid to ask the doctor to write down instructions if you don't understand. Using the HMO mobile app in English can also help bridge the communication gap.

Find English-friendly doctors on RofeRank.