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Switching Health Fund (Kupat Holim) — Your Rights in Herzliya
Every citizen can switch health funds once a year, free of charge, with no age or health restrictions. The switch takes effect on January 1st.
About Herzliya
Herzliya, known as a hub of Israeli high-tech, attracts second-generation Israeli-Ethiopians integrated into advanced industries and services. The city's real-estate market is active and dynamic, with a variety of housing options for professionals.
Your Right to Switch Health Funds
Under the National Health Insurance Law, every Israeli resident is entitled to receive healthcare from one of 4 health funds and to switch between them. The switch is free, requires no medical tests, has no age limit, and is independent of health status.
How to Switch
- Submit a request at any time during the year, but the change only takes effect on January 1st
- Apply at: a branch of the new health fund, btl.gov.il, or by mail
- Documents needed: ID card only
- You'll receive confirmation within 30 days
Special Rights for the Ethiopian-Israeli Community
Amharic services: Health funds must provide translation. Request an interpreter or Amharic telephone service.
Mental health in the basic basket: Since 2021, mental health is included in the basic basket — including 18 free therapy sessions per year.
Children under 18: Free dental care until age 18 at every health fund.
📞 Health Insurance Commissioner: 02-5002738
Ethiopian community in Herzliya
- Community population
- ~2,000
- Share of city
- ~2%
- Main neighbourhoods
- הרצליה פיתוח, נווה אמל
- Community services
- ENP
More rights in Herzliya
This right in other cities
FAQ — Herzliya
- How many Ethiopian-Israelis live in Herzliya?
- The Ethiopian-Israeli community in Herzliya numbers approximately ~2,000 residents — around ~2% of the city's population. Main neighbourhoods: הרצליה פיתוח, נווה אמל.
- How do I claim Switching Health Fund (Kupat Holim) — Your Rights in Herzliya?
- Contact your local health fund (kupat holim) in Herzliya — all funds are required to provide understandable service. For support: ENP.
- What community support is available in Herzliya for this right?
- In Herzliya, the following organisations can assist with paperwork, translation and entitlement: ENP.
Related rights
Chronic Disease Prevention — Tene Briut
Prevention programs for diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease — culturally adapted for the community. Hebrew/Amharic workshops, dietary guidance, exercise instructors. Via Tene Briut.
Disability Benefit for Ethiopian Immigrants — Rights and How to Apply
The BTL general-disability benefit is set by the loss-of-earning-capacity degree determined by a committee — not by the medical disability percentage. Full benefit (75%+): ₪4,711/month (from 1 Jan 2026).
Foreign Worker Rights — Including Undocumented Workers
Undocumented workers are entitled to minimum wage, basic working conditions and cannot be deported for filing a complaint — even if residing illegally.
Free Mortgage Counselling — Guide for Those Entitled
The Ministry of Housing funds free mortgage counselling for housing benefit recipients. A certified adviser saves tens of thousands of ILS in interest.