Jerusalem, 6 September, 2026 (TPS-IL) — At least 1,370 doctors left Israel between 2023 and 2025, according to a Tel Aviv University study published Sunday.
The study counted doctors who spent more than 270 days abroad during their first year away and did not return for more than three consecutive months. It included only doctors who had lived in Israel for at least three years before leaving.
The researchers cautioned that long stays abroad do not always mean permanent emigration, as doctors may leave for training, research or further studies. Still, the sharp rise is concerning.
Among ear, nose and throat, dermatology and eye specialists, 6.2%, or 116 doctors, left. Among those under 60, the rate reached 9.4%.
Among surgeons, 188 left, representing 6% of all surgeons and 8.8% of those under 60.
In Tel Aviv, 5.4% left, compared with 1.5% in Judea and Samaria.