Medical Checklist for Gap Year Students It's probably safe to say that the Gap year packing list your child received did not include a medical supplies checklist. There are many reasons to give your kids some medical supplies and medicines before they leave. First of all, many over-the-counter medications in the US are available by prescription onl...
You have decided to make your Aliyah and currently take prescription medications. How can you continue with your medication regimen in Israel? How can you ensure that your medications are available in Israel and how do you communicate the need for these medications to your new Israeli Family Physician? This is a major stressor to anyone who moves internationally. In this article we are going to provide details about how you should prepare for your Aliyah with regards to transferring your prescriptions into the Israeli medical system, how much to bring with you, information to carry when traveling, and what to...
During the Coronavirus pandemic, many people have been worried about the upcoming Flu season. But to everyone’s surprise, the numbers in the southern hemisphere were the lowest they have been in a long time. “Never in my 40-year career have we ever seen rates ... so low,” says Greg Poland, an influenza expert at the Mayo Clinic. This is probably due to social distancing all over the world. Over the past few months, many countries have closed their bars, restaurants, and social events. This has led to fewer people socializing with one another and thus lowering the infection rates of the...
Today, (December 27th, 2020) the third offical lockdown is starting. For many people this means finding activities for their kids, homeshooling, and finding ways to enjoy the Holidays and newyears. Every winter (regardless of the Coronavirus or the lockdown), people tend to stay home and not go outside because of the cold weather. While many people prefer the summer when they can go outside and enjoy the fresh air, winter has many benefits. Winter can be a very warm and happy time of the year. Many families snuggle up with sweaters and blankets while drinking hot cocoa and watching a nice...
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune chronic inflammatory disorder. Many people think that this disease only affects one’s joint - but it can also affect other things such as skin, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. About 40% of Adults have Rheumatoid Arthritis, and it usually strikes active adults who are active (and who overuse their joints). Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system attacks the synovium (the lining of the membranes that surround the joints). The result is inflammation of the lining of the joint which ultimately destroys the cartilage and bone within the joint. Women are more likely to develop this...
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive disorder that causes brain cells to waste away (degenerate) and die. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia — a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral, and social skills that disrupts a person's ability to function independently. While Alzheimer's is a cause of dementia, it is a different disorder than simple dementia. The dying brain cells result in a different outcome than simple dementia. Most people associate memory loss with Alzheimer's. Other early symptoms and examples are: 1. Inability to multi-task- for example; impossible to keep tabs on how personal finances work 2. Unreasonable decisions...
It’s inevitable that somewhere, somehow, a teen from one of the many Israeli summer programs could be in a hospital emergency room this summer. There are hundreds of teens here, and the sad but true fact is that someone is going to get hurt or sick. The program director, a counselor, or an ambulance will take the teen to the hospital. What happens when the teen arrives in the ER? Emergency rooms in Israeli hospitals follow typical ER protocol. However, hospitals are even more crowded here. Hospitals in remote locations may offer sub-optimal care. Patients are treated based on the severity of...
Tishri is a very special month. Sukkot occurs during this time and many people take time to reconnect with themselves and with their family. There are many activities that allow for people to rediscover each other and enjoy moments with people to matter the most. While many people choose to travel during this time there are activities to do at home. But what activities can you choose to participate in for this sukkot holiday? There are lots of possibilities which are simple, inexpensive, and fun. Here we have listed five activities that we hope will inspire you. Have a family picnic...
It’s hard to recall a Yom Kippur in Israel that did not include hearing of someone fainting from dehydration. This year Yom Kippur will be a little different. The Coronavirus pandemic is the cause for a lot of changes in society with the most significant change this holiday season being the davening in shuls. This year Israel is not going to be in a lockdown but we still need to be very cautious. This year Yom Kippur is on September 16th and while the heatwave is over and the weather is cooling down a bit, it is still hot in Israel....
Medical Care during the Holidays can be tricky in Israel especially if you do not speak Hebrew. During the holidays, many medical offices and hospitals are operating on Shabbat mode. Shabbat mode means that personnel is cut to minimum staffing, many clinics are not operational, and routine, non-emergency health services are not provided. Shabbat mode effects hospitals, emergency rooms, urgent care centers, pharmacies, clinics, and private medical offices. Medical offices have fewer operational hours (or none), so they are typically overbooked the limited hours they are open. Don’t forget that Medical Care during the Holidays includes the eve of holidays! The...
As the Jewish year is quickly coming to an end and Rosh Hashanah upon the horizon many people are taking time to reflect on the past year. New Years resolutions are goals we would like to achieve over the next year. They vary from professional decisions, personal finances, individual goals, etc. Everyone has their challenges. What if maintaining or improving your health through a healthy lifestyle was high on your list? Health: A matter of choice Now that the summer holidays are over, the New Year is here with its share of lofty resolutions. Living healthier is a classic resolution that is often...
Eating disorders are common among teens and young adults. Seminary students in Israel are not exempt from these dangerous conditions. Awareness, recognizing the signs, and early intervention are essential to prevent these conditions from causing permanent damage to suffering students. Ten million people in the U.S. have an eating disorder. It is the third most common and chronic illness in the U.S. More women than men suffer from this illness, and while the numbers are climbing in the Jewish population, the exact number of Jewish people with eating disorders is unknown. Most people know about two eating disorders: anorexia and bulimia. ...
Wheelchair and special needs accessibility in Israel: Many people dream their whole lives of visiting Israel and seeing its unique sites. However, many people are stressed about traveling with someone who is in a wheelchair or has special needs because they are concerned about the trip is extremely limited. The ideal vacation when traveling with someone who is disabled is to find a place that is sensitive towards the disabled and has facilities that will help ease the struggle so that the family may enjoy a fun and stress-free vacation. Israel has many beautiful sites that are unlike any others in...
Many people have grown up hearing Polio, iron lungs, and people migrating from urban areas to rural areas to avoid the Poliovirus. Thankfully, Polio was eradicated from the USA and most countries worldwide in 1979. Polio or Poliomyelitis is a disabling and infectious disease that affects the central nervous system. Polio is a very contagious disease. It is estimated that 1 infected person will spread the Poliovirus to 5-7 people (1 infected person with seasonal flu will spread the virus to approximately 1.58 people). Polio is spread from person to person in two ways. First, people with polio shed the virus...
Breastfeeding versus bottle feeding is a choice every parent will need to decide between welcoming a newborn into their family. During the recent Covid-19 outbreak, people have been recommending mothers to breastfeed rather than use formula. Why is this? What are the advantages of breastfeeding? Nutrition & development Breast milk is considered the best nutrition that a baby can get. Breast milk contains protein, carbohydrates, and minerals that help the baby grow and develop. It is important to note that breastmilk does not have vitamin D, so you might want to add vitamin D drops to your baby’s diet. Breast milk...
Today is Schizophrenia awareness day. Schizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder that Dr. Emile Kraepelin first diagnosed in 1887. Even though Schizophrenia has been diagnosable for over a century, its cause is still somewhat unknown. To this day, it remains one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized disorders. Schizophrenia is very complex, which is why there is a lot of false information surrounding it. People who have Schizophrenia do not always have a split personality disorder or multiple personalities. Most people with Schizophrenia are not any more dangerous or violent than people in the general public. Schizophrenia is considered a syndrome,...
Over the years, we've been approached by people who've asked us about different kinds of diets and food plans. Intermittent fasting has become very popular over the last few years. It is a method of dieting that restricts the amount of time you are allowed to eat. The diet doesn't limit what you eat but when you eat. Intermittent Fasting has many advantages: There are many different "plans" to choose from, and you can customize your dieting plan. Some people choose 8:16 (eating for 16 and fasting for 8), 16:8, 20:24, etc. It helps you develop healthy habits - specifically the habit of snacking....
Fasting is never easy. For Jews, there are two significant fast days that everyone tries to uphold – Yom Kippur and Tisha B'Av. Around 40% of Israeli Jews fast the entire day of Tisha B'Av. Tisha B'av usually occurs during the summer. Israeli summers are very hot with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), with high humidity and no clouds. The hot weather makes fasting dangerous because of the risk of overheating and dehydration. Most Israelis can recall stories of someone fainting from the heat while fasting. The Risk of Dehydration Your body requires a daily minimum amount...
Telemedicine is a great option for caring for geriatric populations in Israel. This is especially true during the Covid-19 pandemic. Over the years, we’ve had many clients who care for their older, dependent parents. Take our clients, the A family. Mrs. A has been caring for her elderly, frail father for many years. With no other family in Israel, it is up to her to manage the medical appointments, the full-time aide, the basic care (food, hygiene), and any emergencies. This responsibility is an honor for her to have, and she does it well… but it has prevented her from having...
This week we celebrate national hygiene week! Personal hygiene is how you take care of your body, it includes certain habits like brushing your teeth, washing your hands, and bathing regularly. These habits limit your chances of developing an illness. Every day people encounter many microscopic germs, bacteria, and viruses. This year, awareness of personal hygiene has increased because of the COVID-19 pandemic. People have been wearing protective equipment such as masks, gloves, and face shields. This equipment reduces one's exposure to germs and viruses but not eliminate the risk. Additionally, children under the age of 7 are not required to...
The Ministry of Health in Israel announced that as of June 15th, the indoor mask regulations will be appealed. So, besides isolation/quarantine, there will effectively be no COVID-19 restrictions for people inside Israel. Many people wonder which health recommendations will remain after COVID-19 is gone. Will people still clean their hands regularly with alcohol gel? Will people wear masks when they are sick or in medical offices? And will PCR testing still be required to detect other viruses? Most people do not realize that the PCR test has been around for a while. PCR tests are commonly administered to detect microbial...
Many tourists in Israel have been struggling with getting a PCR test before their flight home. Currently, travelers are required to do PCR testing within 72 hours before flying. Visitors want to end their vacation on a positive note, but many people have been frustrated by the inefficient PCR testing system in Israel. The most common issues that tourists face are lack of easy access to testing facilities, time wasted in waiting for home testers to arrive, and delayed results. PCR tests at a clinic PCR tests are offered in public clinics and hospitals around the country. However, there are many...
Arthritis is the swelling or tenderness of the joints. The two most common types of arthritis are Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It affects millions of people globally. Every joint has cartilage that surrounds the bones and allows the joint to move smoothly. Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage surrounding the joints starts to break down. This causes pain in the joint, especially during the movement of the joint. Osteoarthritis can also cause changes in the bones and deterioration of the connective tissue that attaches the muscle to the bone. Osteoarthritis is most common...
Head lice are tiny bugs that feed on blood from the human scalp. An infestation of head lice is widespread among children who get lice from direct contact with someone who already has head lice. Most first-world countries have a rule about children who have lice. If a child has lice, they can't come to school until they have a note from someone who checks for lice that they no longer have lice. Sadly, in Israel, the rules are not strict, and lice are prevalent among children. Symptoms Disclosure – you may start feeling itchy from reading the symptoms. Don't worry,...
Over the past few months, Israel has been going through a hard time. First, we had a year of the COVID-19 pandemic where movement restrictions were imposed to help control the disease spreading. Then we had the Meron tragedy in which 45 people were trampled to death while visiting Haar Meron on Lag B’Omer. Lastly, the tension with Gaza has developed into a conflict where thousands of missiles have been targeted at Israel—leaving the people to fear for their lives and seek safety in bomb shelters. Overall, this has not been an easy year for Israel. Many people have been experiencing...
As a senior or the child of a senior, the scariest thing that you can imagine is going through an emergency alone (or your parent being alone). It is important to develop a good emergency plan if you don’t have anyone to come with you to the emergency room. It is also important that you know the medical system, speak the local language, and translate between you and the medical staff. Here at EMA Care, our providers are licensed, experienced health care professionals who speak English, Hebrew, and French. Our employees are experienced communicators that have professional, warm personalities required for...
Visiting a doctor for the first time can be overwhelming. Will this doctor listen to your concerns? Will this doctor spend the appropriate time to answer your questions clearly and with patience? Will this doctor have the bedside manner that you expect? Do they have the medical experience needed to manage and treat your particular diagnosis? These are all valid concerns that go through one's thoughts when thinking about their medical care. How do you know if you are at the right doctor for you? Before going to your first visit to a doctor it's important to realize that proper medical...
This year it is estimated that over a million Jews worldwide have been looking into making Aliyah. This is probably due to the global Coronavirus pandemic and the increasing radical events that have been happening across the globe. Many people are choosing to make Aliyah and spend their golden years in Israel. In fact, about 14% of immigrants (olim) to Israel are over the age of 65. Many olim do not have a social network or speak the language, causing confusion when trying to navigate the healthcare system in Israel. This leads to gaps in current treatments, delayed appointments, or individuals...
Summer is here. During the summer, especially during scorching days, many people are taken to the hospital because of fainting due to dehydration. Dehydration occurs when more fluids leave the body than enters it. The human body consists of 75% water. Water can be found inside cells, in between the cells, within blood vessels, and is responsible for many bodily functions. Causes There are many different causes of dehydration. Low water intake is prevalent when someone is sick, busy, or doesn’t have access to clean water (like traveling, hiking, etc.). Diarrhea or vomiting – while someone is experiencing diarrhea or is vomiting,...
On April 30th, thousands of people arrived at Har Meron to celebrate Lag B’Omer. Due to the overload of people, 45 people were crushed to death, and 150 people were injured. The natural landscape of Har Meron is extremely steep. Additionally, there was a waste on the ground, making pathways slippery. Due to the overcrowding, personal space was not possible. As people moved through a narrow passageway, which was on an incline, a ‘chain reaction’ occurred. The initial incident occurred because someone slipped and fell, causing those behind them to fall. This cascaded into people falling on one another, crushing those...
Over 32 million Americans have food allergies, and the numbers have been growing over the last few years. Each year, we celebrate Food Allergy Awareness Week. This week, the allergy community has a unique opportunity to raise awareness of their food allergies and anaphylaxis. There are many ways to raise awareness of food allergies, both as individuals and as a community. Individual Awareness As an individual, there are many ways to help the allergy community. For people who are open about their food allergies, simply talking to co-workers, schoolmates, and friends can raise awareness. A person with allergies can ask their...
A lot of confusion exists among people regarding the difference between all the tests relating to COVID-19. Here is the difference between a rapid antigen test and a PCR test: Rapid antigen test (RAT): Rapid antigen test (RAT) detects specific viral antigens on the virus's surface from a swab of the mouth and nose of a patient. An antigen test can determine if you are carrying the Coronavirus. The FDA approved the antigen test for emergency use in May 2020. However, these tests aren't as accurate as a regular PCR test (PCR has an accuracy rate of 95% while the antigen...
What is the difference between an antigen test and a PCR test? What is an Antigen test? An antigen test is a rapid covid-19 test determining if someone is currently infected with the COVID virus. The FDA approved antigen testing for emergency use in May 2020. The test works by using a sample from the upper respiratory tract (taken with a swab) and adds the sample to a solution that unleashes specific viral proteins. After applying the mixture to a paper strip, you will see if the COVID virus is present. The results are comparable to a pregnancy test (one...
In April 2021, after a long year with a strict non-entry policy, the Israeli government decided to allow visitors to enter Israel under certain circumstances. The Israeli government was reluctant about opening its borders. Therefore, they haven't made the process easy. The government has very strict rules on who is and isn't allowed to enter Israel. Here is a list of people who can and cannot enter Israel: Israeli citizens Israeli citizens (both vaccinated and unvaccinated) with a valid Israeli travel document (passport or travel document) can fly to Israel without prior approval. Unvaccinated Israeli citizens must quarantine for 10...
Summer is approaching! The summer in Israel is known to be very hot and sunny. Going to the beach, participating in outdoor sports, and playing in the sun are everyday activities in the summer. While all these activities can be useful for vitamin D production, they can also be harmful and damage one’s skin. Side effects can range from dangerous, like skin cancer, to cosmetic damage like wrinkles and aging. Actinic Keratosis/Solar Keratosis Actinic Keratosis, also known as Solar Keratosis, is a prevalent skin condition caused by exposure to the sun. Actinic Keratosis causes rough, scaly patched of skin (usually...
Recently, Israel has opened up its borders for specific cases, first-degree family members, weddings, funerals, etc. The Israeli government requires a lot of verification from everyone entering the country. They need many different kinds of documents to ensure that your reason for entry is valid. All of these documents need to be apostilled. What is an apostilled document? What is an Apostilled document? Certain legal documents are not legalized for use abroad. In the past, the process of making a legal document legal abroad was very complicated. In 1961, many countries gathered and signed the Apostille Treaty. The Apostille Treaty...
Recently, the Israeli government announced that they are going to let certain people enter Israel. This decision was made after a long year with strict non-entry policies due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Entry into Israel is very limited and has very restrictive qualifications, one of which is an antibody test (if the person entering Israel has been vaccinated or has recovered from Covid-19). What is an antibody test? After someone is infected with a disease, their body produces antibodies to provide the body with protection and immunity against another possible infection. Antibodies are found in the blood of people who...
Insomnia, also known as sleeplessness, is a sleep disorder in which people have trouble sleeping. They may have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep as long as desired. Insomnia is typically followed by daytime sleepiness, low energy, and feeling depression. It may result in an increased risk of lower motor skills and problems focusing and learning. Moving to a new country for a year and leaving one’s family to learn for the year can be stressful. Being thousands of miles away from your comfort zone can cause sleeping problems. Insomnia is prevalent during the gap year, especially during the holidays and the first few school...
Carrie Fisher’s untimely, sad death has put in-flight medical emergencies in the headlines. Understanding how in-flight medical emergencies work can help people be better prepared and better understand what an in-flight emergency is, who responds, and what help is available mid-flight. link here! In-flight medical emergencies on commercial flights occur on about 50 flights A DAY, or over 17,000 times a year in the United States alone. Among the most common in-flight medical emergencies are cardiac problems, loss of consciousness, seizures, respiratory problems such as asthma, and musculoskeletal problems, such as strains, sprains, and fractures. Each year, several babies are born aboard airplanes as well. In-flight medical...
After the holidays, students are returning to Yeshiva and Seminary. The long stretch begins. Over the last few weeks, parents have posed questions to us; EMA Care has answers... Q: My son called me because he isn’t feeling well. I am 7500 miles away. What can I do? Q: Can I send my daughter to Israel if she has a chronic health condition? Q: If there is an urgent medical issue during the year, how can I be sure my child is getting appropriate care? Q: My son called me because he isn’t feeling well. I am 7500 miles away. What can I do?...
Covid-19 took the world by a storm. No one could have prepared, predicted, or imagined the ramifications it would have on the world. With governmental regulations changes’ occurring so rapidly, everyone was struggling to understand and implement the latest guidelines. But fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me. Institutions with dormitories have the collective responsibility of thousands of students and as experts predict a second wave around the fall- there is no excuse for a lack of preparedness this time around. We cannot afford to have another year of study disrupted, our students have only one...
A yeast infection is a fungal infection caused by a yeast-like fungus called Candida or Monilia. This fungus resides typically in one's body (the immune system keeps this fungus under control usually). If you get sick or are taking antibiotics, then this fungus can become an infection because your body’s natural defense is decreased. Many gap year students don’t hydrate enough or are unaware of how to prevent yeast infections, therefore, it is common among them. What causes a yeast infection? Many things can cause yeast infections; here are a few examples: Antibiotics – some antibiotics can cause an imbalance in...
Have you ever experienced constipation during Pesach? Chances are you have! Constipation is prevalent during Pesach, a time of year that our diets consist mainly of matzah. Constipation refers to bowel movements that are infrequent or hard to pass. The stool is often hard and dry, which can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and feeling as if one has not ultimately passed the bowel movement. The good news is that there are many easy ways to prevent it. Here are the reasons why people get constipated during Pesach. Dietary Changes During Pesach, People tend to eat a lot of matzah. People eat...
Crohn's disease in Israel can be challenging to manage, especially for non-residents and students, who don't understand the Israeli medical system and who don't have access to full health care services. Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that may affect any segment of the gastrointestinal tract from where food enters to where it exists. Although is common among all age groups, it is especially common among young adults (before the age of 30). The most common symptoms are abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, and weight loss. Ashkenazi Jews are at significantly higher risk for Crohn's disease, and research...
With Passover getting closer, many people have started doing their annual Pesach cleaning. The prospect of spring cleaning can be very stressful, especially during a global pandemic when kids are home all day. Some people are very organized about their schedules and plan a few weeks in advance in order to not be overburdened with work. Here are some tips to make this process less stressful. Make a schedule Making a schedule a few weeks in advance can be very helpful. First, start by making a list of all of the things that need to be cleaned. Finally, divide the chores...
Hopefully, you paid attention to our blog here and received the flu shot. However, for those who did not get the vaccine, the influenza season is in full swing in Israel. Knowing what treatment is best may help you feel better sooner and can prevent others from becoming sick. The flu is highly contagious!! It’s important to take precautions! Common flu symptoms are: Fever higher than 38 C (100 F) Muscle aches Feeling tired or weak. Runny nose Sore throat Influenza is a virus, and distinguishing it from other viral illnesses can be tricky. The flu vaccine is considered 60% effective, as defined by the CDC. Still,...
There are many reasons to change your kupat holim (health plan). Your favorite doctor may no longer be covered at your kupah, you may have moved, and a different kupah is right down the street. Your decision may be based on a kupah’s easier online access, or the complementary medicine services offered is more inclusive. As you age, your medical needs change, and perhaps your current plan is not providing what you now need. Whatever the reason is, you are lawfully able to change your kupat cholim whenever you want. According to Israeli law, kupot holim may not bar applicants on...
The pertussis vaccine is not just for babies and children. Pertussis (whooping cough) is one of the fastest-growing preventable diseases in the US. The disease rate has more than doubled since 2003, with 92% of hospitalizations occurring in infants less than 6 months old! We have seen pertussis spread among gap year students in Israel. The best way to prevent pertussis among infants, children, teens, and adults is to get vaccinated. Although anyone can get pertussis, the disease can be most dangerous, even fatal for infants. Getting vaccinated against pertussis is especially important for families with infants and caregivers of infants. Although...
Most people experience confusion when they need to be in a hospital. Confusion is the inability to think as clearly or as quickly as you want to. Whether you are a patient or a relative of the patient - hospitals are confusing. Without a medical background, it can be an almost helpless feeling. What’s going on? Should I ask that question? What is going to happen next? Why did the doctor say that? Why isn’t the nurse coming? Why do I feel so out of place? There are 3 types of confusion people have in hospitals: Situational confusionFamily confusionDelirium confusion ...
How does socialized medicine work in Israel? How does it impact health care delivery? Every resident of Israel must have government-subsidized health care guaranteed to them by Israel’s Health Insurance Law of 1995. How does this differ from private health care found in other countries? A 2015 Bloomberg report ranked Israel as tied for second place in health care efficiency!! The United States ranks 50th (right above Azerbaijan, Algeria, Russia, and Brazil)! Israel is credited with long life expectancy, emphasis on preventative care, and low-cost medical care. This means you get better health care in Israel for a lot less money...
There may be parental stress as your child leaves for his gap year in Israel. The gap year is an extraordinary time for young adults to grow spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically. However, it can be a bittersweet experience for many parents. You are excited for your child but missing and worrying about your child may be inevitable. EMA Care provides some guidance for parents to cope with their own stress… and make it easier for their children to have a successful year. You are nervous about your child being so far away, constantly scanning the news for anything going on in...
Crohn’s disease in Israel can be challenging to manage, especially for students and tourists who do not have access to the full-service Israeli health care system. Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), which include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, affect as many as 1.4 million Americans, most of who are diagnosed before age 30. Crohn’s disease causes the immune system to attack healthy tissue in the gastrointestinal tract, causing inflammation. It is a life-long condition that can be treated but not cured. Crohn's Disease Management in Israel Ashkenazi Jews are at significantly higher risk for Crohn's disease, and research is being conducted to...
Fasting in Israel can be a different experience from fasting in other countries. It’s hard to recall a Yom Kippur in Israel that did not include hearing someone fainting from dehydration. Even though this year Yom Kippur falls late on October 12, and we hope for cooler weather, the dry, hot weather in Israel puts fasters at higher risk of dehydration. Preparing for Yom Kippur a few days in advance is a sure way to fast safely on this High Holiday. When a person fasts, everyday behavior results in a loss of fluid that is not being replaced in the course of...
Organizing medical records at home can be a daunting task. While more and more processes may be done online, there is still a substantial amount of paperwork for each medical procedure. The cumulation of years of paperwork can make finding the document you do need - more difficult. Organizing your medical records can save you time, money and can he...
It's probably safe to say that the Gap year packing list your child received did not include a medical checklist. There are many reasons to give your kids some medical supplies and medicines before they leave. First of all, many over-the-counter medications in the US are available by prescription only in Israel! Medical supplies are only...
Winter is THE season for both bacterial and viral infections. Understanding the difference between bacterial and viral infections can help manage expectations regarding treatments available. Viral infections include the common cold, flu, most coughs, bronchitis, and chickenpox. Bacterial infections include pneumonia, strep throat, urinary tract infections, and most sinus infections. Bacterial and viral infections have many things in common: 1. They are microbes too small to be seen2. They can cause both acute or chronic infections3. Both cause mild, moderate, or severe disease4. Both may have similar symptoms such as fever, cough, diarrhea, fatigue, and vomiting – although a good health...
Head lice. It’s a subject nearly no one wants to admit exists, let alone think or talk about. However, head lice have reached epidemic proportions all around the world. It’s difficult to get statistics, but an estimated 7% of children between ages 3-11 experience lice infestation each year in the United States. No statistics are available for adults with lice. In Israel, it’s 15% among children! Experts believe the higher number in Israel is because of larger families with siblings passing around lice. EMA Care spoke with Penina Neustadter, a very busy “lice lady” in Israel. Penina became a lice lady...
Marijuana-induced psychosis is real and dangerous. This is perhaps most important to remember when gap year students are away from home for the first time. The average cannabis user, seller, and manufacturer want you to believe that marijuana is an innocent, harmless drug. It is mainly described as a relaxing way to unwind. As marijuana usage becomes legal and more popular, people need to know the facts about marijuana and its possible side effect. While there are some medical benefits to medical cannabis, which medical cannabis can take under the auspices of a physician for specific conditions, there are lesser-known adverse...
The custom of drinking alcohol on Purim stems from a quotation in the Talmud attributed to a fourth-century rabbi, Rava: “One must drink on Purim until that person cannot distinguish between cursing Haman and blessing Mordechai” (Megillah 7). This custom has become a green light for people, especially students in Israel, to drink lots of alcohol on Purim. Unfortunately, many gap year students drink until they are sick, passed out, or exhibiting dangerous or inappropriate behavior (such as vomiting in your rabbi’s yard). Although alcohol consumption in the US is illegal for people under the age of 21, in Israel, it...
Our previous blog here encourages parents to talk to their children about appropriate alcohol use during the holiday of Purim (or anytime!). The day after Purim, people who overindulge will feel the effects – hangovers are awful. What happens when a person knows he/she will be drinking? Are there ways to prevent a hangover? What are hangover remedies? A hangover is defined as disagreeable physical effects following a disproportionate amount of drinking. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty concentrating. It can take 8-24 hours for symptoms to go away. Tips for Avoiding a Hangover 1. Before you go out...
When people are overwhelmed dealing with their own health or the healthcare of another, stress is inevitable. Many of our clients report tension headaches, insomnia, high blood pressure, difficulty making decisions, and fatigue. Some even report developing their own medical problems!EMA Care works hard to alleviate your stress. Our professional staff has extensive knowledge of medical issues plus the workings of the Israeli healthcare system. This powerful combination will take the stress out of healthcare for you and your loved ones. EMA Care now offers new affordable service packages. This includes more flexible, customized intakes, more options for health care management,...
Are you coming to Israel for Passover? Travel insurance provides you with protection against medical costs. Many tourists arrive in Israel without any medical insurance or with a plan that requires tourists to pay out of pocket for any medical surprises while they are away. When tourists return home, they need to deal with the paperwork and bureaucracy to get reimbursed for medical expenses. Medical Problems on Passover Medical problems and emergencies can happen anywhere, anytime. We cannot anticipate them with hundreds of thousands of tourists coming to Israel for Passover, the likelihood of medical problems arising increases. Some common unexpected...
This past year, EMA Care has assisted hundreds of gap year students in all different types of medical crises. What happens when your child is far away and experiencing poor health or, G-d forbid, in an accident? The following are medical nightmares that became medical success stories because of EMA Care involvement. 1. Allergic anaphylactic shock – A student with a dairy allergy was promised the sherbet he bought was dairy-free. It may have been, but the spoon used was cross-contaminated ice cream on it. The student went into shock immediately; his friend did not know how to use his epi-pen....
Gap year students and dehydration have been a bad mix for decades. Unfortunately, with springtime heat waves in Israel, EMA Care has been called in recently to assist gap year students experiencing serious medical conditions stemming from dehydration. Dehydration can set it quickly in otherwise healthy people when the weather gets dry or hot – but heatwaves in Israel magnify the problem with both heat and dry winds. Student #1- Complained of serious back pain urinary tract infection symptoms. She believed her back pain was due to tossing and turning all night. Her urine test showed that she was severely dehydrated...
Medical concierge stands for personalized, caring, inclusive health care case management for both tourists and residents in Israel. EMA Care is one of the few medical concierge companies in Israel. The only service managed and run by the highest level of experienced health care professionals and clinical experts. For residents in Israel, EMA Care offers the total package of medical case management and health care supervision and guidance in Israel. Each client has a customized service packaged based on their individual and family needs. This tailored package can include: 1. Case management for chronic health conditions. EMA Care will pull all...
Yes, there has been an outbreak of leptospirosis in Israel, particularly in those who have been on water hikes and locations with rivers. What does this mean for your child? How will this affect your child? Here are some simple answers which will answer frequently asked questions about this. 1) What is leptospirosis? Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease that can affect people and animals. People can get leptospirosis through exposure to infected animal urine (or soil/water contaminated with infected urine). 2) Where was leptospirosis found? In Israel, leptospirosis was found in several rivers in the Golan heights that include popular hiking...
In recent weeks there has been a surge of West Nile Virus in Israel. A few hundred people have been infected, and several people (elderly or immunocompromised) have died in recent weeks. West Nile Virus is a virus spread by mosquitoes that have fed off of infected birds. The incubation period is 5-21 days on average. The virus peak activity, according to the Israel Ministry of Health, is from mid-August to mid-October. According to the CDC, 80% of people infected have no noticeable symptoms. West Nile Virus's symptoms for the remaining 20% of infected individuals are usually mild flu-like symptoms, including...
We have noticed a significant uptick in the number of gap year students diagnosed with mononucleosis (“mono”) in the last few weeks. This affects many gap year programs – both yeshivas and seminaries – and lots of misunderstandings about mono are going around from parents and program administrators. We want to educate the public about this condition. Mononucleosis is a contagious illness caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). It is spread through saliva, and in Israel, it is actually called the “kissing disease.” Spreading by saliva can include sharing utensils, drinking glasses, toothbrushes, or eating implements (think about a family dinner...
Unfortunately, we have gotten to the point of managing measles in student dorms of gap year programs. As most of you know, there is currently a measles outbreak in Israel (and concurrently in Jewish communities in the New York area). According to the Israel Ministry of Health, as of December 10th, 2018, there were 2400 reported measles cases in Israel, but many more cases go unreported. Most cases have been in Jerusalem (1200+), Tzfat, Tel Aviv, and Petach Tikva, although almost every region has been affected. Since August, the number of people with Measles has doubled every month from 116 cases...
Recently, several gap-year students experienced sudden onset panic attacks, and they reached out to EMA Care. Panic attacks can be frightening and disorienting to any adult! When an 18-19-year-old is far from home, living in a dormitory with many other people, it’s even more frightening, especially when it is the first time having a panic attack. When a person has a real phobia, such as fear of flying or fear of heights, the brain perceives a real danger. The brain is designed with a flight or fight response when the brain perceives danger. The brain triggers adrenaline and other hormones to...
Early in the summer, and there have already been numerous drownings and near-drownings of (mostly) children and babies in Israel. Children drown in pools, at beaches, and even in buckets of water. Adults usually drown because of poor judgment – jumping into rapids or going deep into the sea without swimming skills. “Near drownings” oftentimes cause irreversible brain damage due to prolonged lack of oxygen. Contrary to popular belief and Hollywood imaginations, drowning is almost always a silent process. If someone can call for help and wave their arms, they may be in trouble, but they are not drowning. Dangers of...
Dr. Eliana Aaron contributed to the international epidemiological reporting system for proMed -,mail. ProMED-mail is a program of theInternational Society for Infectious Diseases http://www.isid.org. An Israeli expert panel sub-committee recommended vaccinating children withMMR at age 1 and age 2 years to provide an additional booster to thisvulnerable age-group. Children ages 1 to 4 years remain the most affected bythe measles epidemic.Routine vaccinations of 6-year-olds will continue in school-based clinics.This is in light of an ongoing epidemic in Israel affecting primarilyultra-orthodox Jewish populations and sporadic communities of anti-vaxxers.This epidemic has spread to other ultra-orthodox communitiesinternationally.The recommendation is that the Ministry of Health has nobudget...
Summertime is here, and bug bites in Israel can be a bit unique due to being in the Middle East and a part of Asia's continent. Here are some common bug bites, how to identify and treat them, and when to get help. 1.Mosquitos – In the hot, humid areas of Israel, mosquitos are everywhere. Mosquitos are usually present in the early morning and late afternoon to evening hours. Mosquito bites are identified as a single bite surrounded by localized inflammation (a red bump) The vast majority of mosquitos in Israel are just annoying. However, Culex and Asian tiger mosquitoes are...
Dental care in Israel for gap year students is not covered under most student health insurance policies. Some policies do cover up to $300 of emergency dental care for specific insurance dentists. These dentists are excellent professionals and usually speak English fluently. This is for emergency care only, however! It does not include checku...
The Jerusalem Marathon 2019 The marathon has become a rite of passage for many gap year students in Israel. It is a beautiful route, complete with running past the Old City walls and into modern Jerusalem. Many students are using the Jerusalem Marathon to run for different chessed (charitable) organizations. Whether they are running the full 42 km, 21 km, 10 km, or 5 km, we wish all the runners stamina and luck! There are important medical guidelines to follow as per the Jerusalem Marathon organizers: The Ministry of Health recommends that a family or sports physician examine runners before running...
Fasting in Israel It’s hard to recall a Yom Kippur in Israel that did not include hearing someone fainting from dehydration. Fasting in Israel can be a different experience from fasting in other countries. Even though this year Yom Kippur falls late on October 9th, and we hope for cooler weather, the dry, hot weather in Israel puts fasters at a higher risk of dehydration. Preparing for Yom Kippur a few days in advance is a sure way to fast safely on this High Holiday. When a person fasts, everyday behavior results in a loss of fluid that is not being...
The Flu Shot Myths and Guidance for Dorms Influenza or “flu” is a dangerous, highly contagious virus that can cause high fevers, fatigue, achy muscles, chills, sweats, and headaches. The last flu season (2018-2019) was the longest in 21 years. According to the CDC, millions of people were hospitalized, and 61,000 people died in the US alone. To avoid this debilitating illness, we recommend getting the flu shot. The flu shot is a vaccine with weakened antibodies that stimulate normal immunity processes and protect people from the flu. The formulation changes every year and is different in the Northern and Southern...
Sties among students A sty is a red lump near the edge of the eyelid that accumulates bacteria in your oil gland. Sties can cause pain or itchy feeling around the eye, swollen eyelids, eye pus or tearing, and redness around the eye. Sties are extremely contagious, especially among students who dorm together. Eye sties can be caused by viruses, bacteria, and/or allergies. Leaving makeup on overnight, rubbing your eye excessively, and trying to extend the life of old contact lenses may cause bacteria to accumulate around the oil glands around your eye. Once you have a sty, if you don't...
Donating Blood Donating blood is an amazing thing. According to the Red Cross, one donation of blood can save three lives. Blood donation is safe for healthy adults. There’s no risk of contracting the disease. New, sterile equipment is used for each donor. Donating blood helps people who go through disasters or emergencies, loss of blood during surgery. It can also help women who have at-risk pregnancies. It’s not only the blood receiver that benefits from a blood donation. Donator has many benefits, as well. In order to donate blood, one must go through a health checkup. This test checks blood...
Have you ever traveled to a new place and experienced constipation? Over the past few years, we have had many gap year students complain about constipation – usually within the first 2 months of being in the country. We had a vegetarian student who was eating only tofu- no vegetables, fruits, and definitely not a balanced diet. Another student was eating only potato chips and soda because they were too tired to cook or even go out at the end of the long day. This student ended up gaining weight and developing skin problems! Constipation refers to bowel movements that...
Ingrown toenails occur when your nails' edges or corners grow into the skin next to the nail. Your big toe is most likely to get an ingrown toenail, but any toenail or even fingernail can be affected. This condition is prevalent among people with sweaty feet, like teenagers and students, particularly those who wear fitted closed shoes for long periods of time. An ingrown toenail's causes include cutting your toenails incorrectly, particularly nails with jagged edges when you have irregular toenails when you drop something heavy on your toe. Sometimes, there can be a genetic predisposition to this condition. An ingrown...
Eating Disorders 10 million people in the U.S. have an eating disorder. It is the third most common and chronic illness in the U.S. More women than men suffer from this illness, and while the numbers are climbing in the Jewish population, the exact number of Jewish people with eating disorders is unknown. Most people know about two eating disorders: anorexia and bulimia. Not known to most people, the most common eating disorder is actually EDNOS – or “Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified.” Here is a short description of the three: Anorexia- A disorder in which an individual refuses to maintain...
Traveling to the east or southeast Traveling after serving in the army is very common amongst Israelis. They usually travel to eastern countries such as India, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. These countries are third-world countries that have different diseases than Israel and lower the quality of healthcare. Due to the climate and local hygiene standards, the risks of illness are generally higher than in more developed parts of the world. Therefore, it is essential to be prepared and make sure you have updated standard vaccines. Recommended vaccines Typhoid – this is a very infectious disease that is spread through water...
The Health Ministry released a report on Tuesday (24/12/19) showing a decrease of 1.5% in citizens getting flu shots. According to the Ynet news site report from Saturday, some 1.8 million people have been vaccinated so far this season in Israel, as the country’s four healthcare organizations are estimated to have just 150,000 vaccines remaining. The shortage of flu vaccines is because last year, Israel health clinics had to throw away many flu vaccines, and this year, the production of flu vaccines started later than last year. This has resulted in a huge shortage of flu vaccines. Israel is expecting more...
Allergy-free baked goods Every Jew dreams of vacationing in Israel with their family and friends. When you go on vacation, you want to have a stress-free vacation, and not have to worry about having any medical problems or allergic reactions. Sadly, Israel is very bad with labeling products for allergens, especially since all of the spices are processed in the same machine as nuts and sesame. Until now, allergy-free baked goods were simply a dream in Israel. Unless you take precautions, Israel may not be a great place to visit if you have food allergies. Depending on what you are allergic...
Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), which include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, affect as many as 1.4 million Americans, most of who are diagnosed before age 30. Crohn’s disease causes the immune system to attack healthy tissue in the gastrointestinal tract, causing inflammation. It is a life-long condition that can be treated but not cured. Therefore, Crohn’s Disease can significantly affect patients’ quality of life and may have a high financial burden. Ashkenazi Jews are at significantly higher risk for the disorder, and research is being conducted to understand what causes the illness and how it is connected to the Ashkenazi gene. ...
With all of the news surrounding the Novel Coronavirus the past few weeks, many people are scared to travel and possibly expose themselves to the new, dangerous virus. Israel has gone to many lengths to prevent the disease from spreading in Israel. These actions aim to prevent the virus from spreading and allow people to feel safe in Israel. The Novel Coronavirus is a new kind of virus that started spreading in China. Coronaviruses are a large family of common viruses in many different species of animals, including camels, cattle, cats, and bats. Coronavirus is a type of virus responsible for...
As seen in many photos from China and Asia, many ordinary people have been wearing masks when outdoors to prevent catching the coronavirus. In the photo – some people are getting creative due to mask shortages in specific Asian countries. Is wearing face masks effective against coronavirus? Most people do not know when masks are effective, when they are a waste, and how to manage if you need a mask to prevent illness. Basic rules of mask-wearing for Novel Coronavirus from the World Health Organization: People with suspected Novel Coronavirus should wear a medical-grade mask if possible and have as much...
We would all like to hope that our children will behave responsibly throughout their year in Israel. However, it is important to educate your children on alcohol consumption, especially with Purim coming soon. The day after Purim, people who overindulge in drinking will feel the effects. Hangovers are awful. What happens when a person knows he/she will be drinking? Are there ways to prevent a hangover? What are hangover remedies? A hangover is defined as disagreeable physical effects following a disproportionate amount of drinking. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty concentrating. It can take 8-24 hours for symptoms to...
Over the past few weeks, the media has exploded with news on the Covid-19/ Novel Coronavirus. There have been many reports of outbreaks in 73 countries worldwide (as of February 29, 2020). Many more people have been panicking about the possibility of getting infected. During the peak of seasonal flu season in the Northern hemisphere, this outbreak has occurred, making identifying Covid-19 vs. flu very challenging as they share the same symptoms. So far, the new coronavirus (Covid-19) has led to more than 79,000 cases and 2800 deaths in China and more than 7000 cases, and 150 deaths worldwide. The overall...
Do the N-95 masks help? Do masks work? This is a question that many people have asked us in the past few weeks. The COVID-19 (Coronavirus) was discovered in China in December of 2019. It is widespread in Asia, especially in China and Japan, to see people walking around wearing surgical masks to prevent the inhalation of pathogens and pollution. Surgical masks aren’t effective against COVID-19 (Coronavirus). The N-95 mask has been recommended for medical professionals providing direct care because they are thicker than a surgical mask. Still, neither Schaffner nor the CDC (Centres for Disease Prevention and Control) recommends public...
With the spread of COVID-19 throughout the globe, people are looking for the best ways to protect themselves and their families. Between masks and avoiding air travel, there are any number of tips floating around the internet that may not actually be as useful as they seem. So, what are the best ways to keep your family healthy? And which online tips have merit, and which do not? Wash Your Hands This one sounds obvious, but when breaking it down it actually becomes a little more complicated than it seems. It turns out that most people do not adhere to...
The COVID-19 outbreak is a stressful time for people. Under current regulations, individuals are not allowed to leave their homes unless essentially necessary. Fear and anxiety about the disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. Those who are more vulnerable are: Older people and people with chronic diseasesChildren and teensWorkers helping with the response to COVID-19, like healthcare workers, or first respondersPeople who currently have an underlying mental health condition Common signs of stress during a disease outbreak include: Fear and worry about your health and the health of your...
Due to government regulations, schools, work, and stores have all been shut down. During our time at home, it is easy to get frustrated by family members and get into fights. Here are a few EMA Care tips for having your own space while also spending quality time with one another. Parents who are working from home should have their own areas of the house where they work. Children in school should also study in their own rooms or their own spaces around the house.There should be times of the day that the family spends quality time together. Families should make...
When you are unwell the last thing you want to deal with is the frustration of trying to get a timely doctor's appointment. However, whether it's an appointment with a family doctor for a sore throat or with a specialist for a chronic medical condition, you may find that the process does not run as smoothly as you would like. In Israel, appointments with kupat doctors are made via the kupah website, the kupah app or their 24-hour phone service (moked).One major advantage of using the app or the website is that you will see a listing of all doctors and available appointments in the location you choose...
Advanced age increases the risk of health complications which can lead to chronic pain. Unlike grey hairs and wrinkles, chronic pain is NOT part of the normal aging process. Chronic pain is described as pain lasting 3 months or longer. The following conditions often result in chronic pain: ArthritisNeuropathy, spontaneous or a diabetes side effectCancer, as well as its treatmentBone Fractures Chronic pain disrupts the quality of life for many elderly. The resulting distress can lead to sleep deprivation, depression, and anxiety. It's a vicious circle: without proper sleep, the body reacts with even more pain. How we can help EMA...
Thankfully, the coronavirus sanctions are lifting. The kupahs are getting back to normal working hours, and it is time to stop ignoring your important medical care. Top 5 Areas of Healthcare 1. Family doctor - Many of us may have seen our family doctor via telephone call or Zoom meeting, but there is nothing like an in-person consultation with your doctor. If you have not been feeling 100% (not coronavirus related) and/or you need prescriptions refilled, now is the time to go. Request referrals from your family doctor to see specialists. 2. Pharmacy – restock medication, including over-the-counter medication. Make sure any...
The Coronavirus has introduced most people to a new kind of life. We can’t see family unless we follow certain conditions, we can’t socialize without wearing masks, and it is hard to get into the spirit of the upcoming holiday, Shavuot. Shavuot is a very spiritual holiday; it is when the Jews were given the Torah and became the Jewish nation. Every year, we renew our acceptance of God’s gift. It is important to focus on the atmosphere of chag, rather than on events that usually take place. Usually, people go to shul and sing along with the community, some people...
With summer here, one of the most important things to do is hydrate. Dehydration can quickly set in otherwise healthy people when the weather gets dry or hot – but heat waves in Israel magnify the problem with both heat and dry winds. Hot weather usually makes people feel HOT, but it can also lead to serious and alarming health problems. Experts say that when nighttime temperatures do not drop much lower than daytime temperatures, there is added stress on the body. The most common problem linked to hot weather is heat stress. Heat stress occurs when the body’s temperature is...
Dr. Eliana talks about the new regulations regarding making weddings in Israel. Today weddings are allowed to be up to 50 people. wedding halls are starting to open on June 14th. There are many new regulations for example a covid-19 officer that will make sure that the regulations are being taken seriously. The current wedding situation – (Time: 0:30) Event hall regulations/COVID-19 officer - (Time: 2:30) Maximum occupancy – (Time: 3:47) Pre-registering for the wedding – (Time: 5:00) Social distancing – (Time: 6:40) Dancing – (Time: 7:43) Opening of the bar and social events around the world – (Time: 12:50) Which...
