In the face of unprecedented challenges, Sheba Medical Center, Israel’s largest medical center, has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and commitment to patient care. Since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7th, 2023, Sheba has rapidly expanded its rehabilitation capabilities, transforming its facilities to meet the urgent needs of both military personnel and civilians affected by the war.
The scale of this undertaking is staggering. According to Steve Walz, Sheba’s Head of International Media and Public Affairs, Sheba has treated over 18,000 civilians and soldiers since October 7, including 70% of all soldiers injured in Gaza. Sheba’s newly dedicated rehabilitation department has already provided critical care to more than 600 patients.
Sheba’s “Returning to Life” Rehabilitation Center
This surge in demand prompted a swift and innovative response from Sheba Medical Center. The second floor of the geriatric rehabilitation hospital was repurposed into the “Returning to Life” Rehabilitation Center for War Casualties. This new ward, equipped with state-of-the-art rehabilitation equipment and staffed by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, can accommodate around 70 patients at any given time.
Prof. Israel Dudkiewicz, the Chairman of the Rehabilitation Division at the Sheba Medical Center, emphasizes that the challenges extend beyond medical care. “The most challenging thing was how we can take in these soldiers and have them feel that we care and we want their time spent here to help them do better,” he explains. This holistic approach includes not just physical and psychological therapy, but also recreational activities and social spaces designed to support patients’ overall well-being.
Sheba’s Comprehensive Rehabilitation: Pioneering Care in Times of Crisis
The rehabilitation process is intensive and multifaceted. Patients engage in up to six hours of daily therapy, including occupational therapy, physical therapy, hydrotherapy, psychotherapy, and even virtual reality treatments. This comprehensive approach aims to address both physical injuries and the significant mental health challenges faced by many patients, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
As tensions continue to simmer, particularly in northern Israel, Sheba remains prepared for a potential influx of new patients. The experiences and innovations at Sheba Medical Center offer valuable insights for healthcare providers worldwide. Sheba’s model provides a blueprint for healthcare institutions seeking to enhance their crisis response capabilities and improve patient outcomes in challenging circumstances.
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