Israel Developing AI-based Healthcare Industry
Owing to the skillful and innovative ecosystem, collaborations with academia, and support from the local government, Israel is one of the global pioneers in integrating AI solutions in the medical field.
The Israeli AI-based healthcare industry is rapidly evolving, driven by the country’s advanced high-tech ecosystem, innovative healthcare industry, and the Israeli government’s support for research and development. As Israel is one of the global leaders in AI and technology, its healthcare system is also benefiting from this expertise.
AI-based healthcare in Israel
Among the medical fields the industry is focusing on are AI solutions for research and diagnostics, personalized medicine, imaging, drug development, digital health, and many more. Additionally, AI-based solutions can be leveraged to address many pain points the healthcare system is facing, both in Israel and globally. Like many Western countries, Israel is experiencing a shortage in medical personnel; implementing AI in telemedicine, diagnostic procedures, and healthcare system management could save medical staff valuable time.
The Israeli government supports AI-driven healthcare solutions development in several ways; the Israel Innovation Authority (IIA) provides funding and grants to encourage U.S.-Israel research and developments, governmental hospitals test and adopt AI technologies, and the Ministry of Health is exploring ways to implement advanced solutions and to create a more favorable regulatory infrastructure.
It is important to note that, unlike the United States, Israel has maintained and reserved consistent medical records of all patients, from birth to death, creating a robust database. That information is crucial for AI and machine learning, which could add great value for companies looking to develop medical AI tools in Israel.
Opportunities for U.S. companies
Despite the advanced local industry, AI applications in the medical field are still in its first steps and there is significant potential for development. U.S. companies can find opportunities in collaborating with the Israeli industry, and enjoy the highly skilled Israeli innovators, the advanced ecosystem, and the government’s supportive environment.
In addition, in 2023 the Israeli government announced the plan to build two large hospitals, that will adopt the most innovative and advanced medical practices, mainly AI technologies in all sub-sectors. U.S. med-tech companies will have an opportunity to implement their AI solutions in brand new hospitals, and as the projects evolve.
For additional information on opportunities in the healthcare sector in Israel, please contact Commercial Specialist Inbar Marom at inbar.marom@trade.gov.