Israel has been under scrutiny in a recent report for its number of imaging devices. Since the 2015 audit, more devices have been added, bringing the total to 60 MRI devices, 93 CT devices, and 20 PETCT devices. However, despite these additions, the number of devices still does not meet the population growth and demand for tests. The country has fewer MRI and CT devices per million people compared to 13 OECD countries, with the USA having significantly more devices per million people. While Israel’s PETCT device numbers are higher than in only three countries, their utilization is greater in Israel compared to other nations.
The report highlights geographical disparities in device distribution among different regions of Israel. For example, the Central District has fewer MRI machines per capita than required by regulations, while the number of CT devices is also insufficient in both the Central and Northern Districts. In contrast, the Southern District has met regulations by adding more CT devices. However, there are still discrepancies in allocating PETCT devices among districts.
The audit report raises concerns about long waiting times for imaging tests in Israel due to a limited number of medical imaging devices available to patients. Some patients have waited over six months for an appointment. The policy aimed at curbing demand by restricting medical device supply is attributed to this shortage of imaging equipment. The process of obtaining licenses for medical imaging equipment is lengthy and bureaucratic and contributes to delays in service provision. Additionally, there are deficiencies in geographical distribution standards for maximum waiting times and quality control interpretation tests.
Furthermore, the report identified delays in decoding imaging tests resulting from a shortage of radiologists who interpret some non-specialists’ diagnoses raising concerns about accuracy issues associated with such misinterpretation of diagnosis results that may affect patient care decisions or even lead to wrong treatments or delayed diagnoses which could be detrimental to patients’ health conditions or even lead to fatalities if left untreated or delayed treatment can cause severe harm or death if not addressed on time hence it is imperative that government take measures now before it’s too late.
In response, the Ministry of Health acknowledges these challenges and outlines measures taken to address them such as adding more MRI devices in underserved regions and investing hospital protection programs in conflict areas where some hospitals were damaged during conflicts.
Moreover; The Ministry also highlights ongoing efforts to train healthcare professionals and improve accessibility testing services.
The Ministry commits itself entirely to continue addressing deficiencies within its system so that all citizens can receive quality healthcare services without any delay or discrimination based on their location or financial status.
In conclusion, while Israel has made progress since its 2015 audit by increasing its number of imaging
