Galilee Medical Center

17/08/2026

Galilee Medical Center: Two Young Children Hospitalized After Eating Chocolate Containing Hallucinogenic Mushrooms
Two children, ages 5½ and 6½, were urgently brought to the Pediatric Emergency Department at Galilee Medical Center after eating chocolate containing hallucinogenic mushrooms during a family vacation. Upon arrival, both children were experiencing severely dilated pupils and active hallucinations.
An initial medical assessment found the children to be respiratory and hemodynamically stable, but exhibiting significant neurological symptoms. Following consultation with the National Center for Poison Information, physicians suspected intoxication from Psilocybe/Panaeolus mushrooms, which contain psychoactive substances that can cause hallucinations and elevated blood pressure and, in severe cases, seizures and cardiac complications.
Given the potential for additional symptoms to develop, both children were admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for close observation and continuous monitoring.
Dr. Sally Machoum, Pediatric Emergency Department physician:
“The children arrived confused, with markedly dilated pupils and active hallucinations. We immediately worked to stabilize their condition and, in coordination with the National Center for Poison Information, initiated treatment and close monitoring. Because intoxication of this type can be unpredictable, the children were transferred to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit for continued observation and monitoring.”
Dr. Tsvi Sheleg, Deputy Director of Galilee Medical Center:
“This was a serious incident that had the potential to become life-threatening. Fortunately, the children have so far avoided any critical complications, thanks to their parents’ vigilance and the rapid, professional response of our medical teams. We urge the public to exercise the utmost caution, keep potentially hazardous substances and products out of the reach of young children, and seek immediate medical attention whenever poisoning is suspected.
https://bit.ly/4g121t4

The children, aged five-and-a-half and six-and-a-half, have been placed under close observation in the hospital's pediatric intensive care unit (ICU).

30/07/2026

As forecasts warn of an intense heatwave expected to peak from Friday through Sunday, with temperatures reaching 45 to 47°C (113 to 117°F) in the Sea of Galilee and Jordan Valley regions and extreme heat across Israel, the Ministry of Health is urging the public to take extra precautions against heat-related illnesses.
Dr. Khaled Atallah, Director of the Emergency Department at Galilee Medical Center, explains:
"Extreme heatwaves are not just uncomfortable. They pose a serious health risk that can rapidly become life threatening. During periods of extreme heat, the body's natural cooling mechanisms struggle to cope. Once heatstroke or severe dehydration develops, prevention is the most effective protection. Our Emergency Department is fully prepared for any scenario, but we urge the public, especially older adults, children, and other vulnerable populations, to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours of the day, drink plenty of water, and remain in air conditioned environments. Take care of yourselves, and remember to check on your neighbors and loved ones as well."
Photo: Galilee Medical Center Spokesperson's Office

29/07/2026

At the Forefront of Medical Innovation: Preventing Amputations and Saving Limbs
Dozens of leading experts from Israel and around the world gathered at Galilee Medical Center for a unique professional conference dedicated to one of modern medicine's most complex challenges: the treatment of diabetic foot disease and innovative surgical approaches to limb preservation.
The conference was initiated by the Department of Orthopedics A team, led by Dr. Haim Shtarker, Dr. Alaa Aboud, Dr. Amit Koraktor, and Dr. Vladimir Tertsi. The program featured scientific lectures alongside hands-on workshops showcasing the world's most advanced technologies for wound healing and limb preservation.
Prof. Masad Barhoum, Director of Galilee Medical Center, said:
"Galilee Medical Center is committed to advancing medical innovation and academic excellence for the residents of northern Israel. The powerful collaboration demonstrated at this conference, bringing together a leading academic institution such as the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar-Ilan University, professional medical societies, and the world's leading medical technology companies, is the key to driving clinical breakthroughs. These partnerships enable us to bring the most advanced treatments directly to our patients and strengthen our role as a center of life-saving medical expertise."
Dr. Haim Shtarker, Head of Department of Orthopedics A and one of the conference organizers, added:
"Diabetic foot disease remains one of the greatest challenges in modern medicine. By combining technological innovation, surgical expertise, and international knowledge-sharing, we can provide patients with the most advanced care available while significantly improving their chances of recovery and limb preservation. We are proud to bring the latest global innovations to Galilee Medical Center, ensuring that patients in northern Israel receive the highest standard of care."
The conference marked the introduction of two new treatment approaches for diabetic foot disease at Galilee Medical Center's Department of Orthopedics A. These innovative techniques have already received outstanding feedback from orthopedic specialists worldwide.
The event was held in collaboration with the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar-Ilan University, the Israeli Orthopedic Association, and leading medical technology and medical device companies.
A sincere thank you to all of the speakers, participants, and partners whose contributions made this important conference a success.

28/07/2026

Strengthening Academic and Medical Excellence in the Galilee for the Health of Northern Israel's Communities.
Galilee Medical Center recently hosted the extended leadership team of the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar-Ilan University for a strategic working meeting focused on deepening the partnership between academic medicine, research, and clinical care.
During the visit, the faculty leadership met with the hospital's executive management to discuss ongoing collaboration and future initiatives that will further advance medical education, research, and patient care in the Galilee.
Prof. Masad Barhoum, General Director of Galilee Medical Center, welcomed the delegation with an overview of the hospital and highlighted the longstanding partnership with the Faculty of Medicine.
"We are the Faculty of Medicine's primary affiliated hospital in the Galilee, serving as a leading center for both academic education and medical research. Together with the faculty's leadership, we will continue to advance excellence and achieve new milestones."
Dr. Tsvi Sheleg, Deputy Director of Galilee Medical Center, presented the hospital's key areas of activity, with a special focus on innovation and future development. Also participating in the meeting were Prof. Lior Lowenstein, Vice Dean and Head of the Azrieli School of Medicine at Bar-Ilan University, as well as Director of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Galilee Medical Center, and Dalya Tedgi, Director of Nursing.
The visit concluded at the Engel Health Education Center, where department directors and faculty leaders discussed the opportunities and challenges created by the Faculty's continued growth, including the expansion of its six-year medical program and the anticipated increase in the number of medical students in the years ahead.
Together, we are investing in the next generation of physicians while strengthening healthcare, research, and innovation for the people of the Galilee and all of northern Israel.
הפקולטה לרפואה בגליל - אוניברסיטת בר-אילן

22/07/2026

We are proud to congratulate Dr. Idan Redenski, a resident in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, led by Prof. Samer Srouji, on being awarded the prestigious Rothschild Fellowship for 2026. This is one of Israel's most distinguished and competitive scientific honors, presented to outstanding physician-scientists.
Dr. Redenski earned this exceptional recognition for his groundbreaking research in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine. He will continue his clinical and research career through a fellowship at one of Toronto, Canada's leading research centers.
Earlier today, we celebrated this remarkable achievement at a special gathering. Prof. Masad Barhoum, General Director of Galilee Medical Center, congratulated Dr. Redenski on receiving the fellowship and on successfully passing his Stage B specialty board examination this month, marking another important milestone as he nears the completion of his residency. Joining in the congratulations were Prof. Khetam Hussein, Deputy Director of Galilee Medical Center, and Prof. Samer Srouji.
The entire Galilee Medical Center family is incredibly proud of you, Dr. Redenski. We wish you every success in this exciting new chapter and look forward to welcoming you back after your fellowship.
Photo: Tomasz Solinski
Dental GMC - הקולג' לגליל למדעי רפואת השיניים

16/07/2026

Bringing Advanced Medicine to Northern Israel: Three Galilee Medical Center Physicians Complete Prestigious International Training in Canada 👏

Three physicians from Galilee Medical Center recently participated in an advanced international training course at McMaster University in Canada, focused on innovative minimally invasive endoscopic skull base surgery through the eye socket (Transorbital Endoscopic Surgery), as well as multiportal surgical approaches.

The participating physicians were Dr. Tal Marshak, Head of the Rhinology and Skull Base Unit in the Department of Otolaryngology (ENT), Dr. Yuval Gruber, Director of Skull Based Endoscopic Surgery from the Department of Neurosurgery, and Dr. Dana Cohen from the Department of Ophthalmology.

This rapidly evolving field combines neurosurgery, ophthalmology, and skull base surgery, enabling suitable patients to undergo minimally invasive endoscopic procedures that provide direct access to the brain through the skull base while minimizing disruption to surrounding tissues and reducing surgical morbidity.

The program featured lectures by internationally recognized experts, hands on training in advanced anatomy laboratories, discussions of complex clinical cases, and exposure to cutting edge surgical techniques. Special emphasis was placed on surgical planning, patient safety, and multidisciplinary collaboration across specialties.

Participation in this prestigious program reflects Galilee Medical Center's ongoing commitment to remaining at the forefront of global medical innovation and bringing the latest technologies and treatment approaches to northern Israel, ensuring patients receive advanced, high quality, and safe medical care.

Dr. Tal Marshak said: "Skull base surgery requires extensive expertise in advanced techniques and meticulous surgical planning. This training exposed us to innovative approaches that will help further develop this field at Galilee Medical Center."

Dr. Yuval Gruber added: "The combination of hands on training, clinical discussions, and knowledge exchange with international experts provided us with valuable tools for managing complex cases and further improving the quality of care we provide our patients."

Dr. Dana Cohen noted: "The transorbital approach to the brain highlights the importance of close collaboration between the ENT, Ophthalmology, and Neurosurgery departments. This multidisciplinary approach expands treatment options for patients with complex conditions involving the orbit and skull base."

12/07/2026

Raising Awareness. Promoting Prevention. Protecting Your Health.

Last week, Galilee Medical Center marked Skin Cancer Awareness Week with a special day dedicated to your health, combining education with hands-on preventive care.

We began the day with an engaging and informative lecture by Prof. Khalaf Khridin, Head of the Dermatology Unit and Skin Research Laboratory, who discussed the different types of skin cancer, identified key risk factors, and highlighted the critical importance of protecting your skin from harmful UV exposure.

We then put knowledge into action by setting up a special awareness booth in the hospital's main lobby.
Our Dermatology Unit physicians provided free skin mole screening examinations for staff and visitors, answered questions, and offered personalized advice. We also distributed sunscreen samples to help everyone stay protected and practice safe sun habits.

Our message is simple:

Skin cancer is often preventable, and early detection saves lives.

Don't wait. Apply sunscreen every day, wear a hat, seek shade whenever possible, and schedule a routine skin examination with your dermatologist.

Your health is in your hands, and we're here to help you protect it.

07/07/2026

Dr. Tsvi Sheleg, Deputy
Director at Galilee Medical Center, shared what it takes to maintain lifesaving care under constant security threats, just six miles from the Lebanese border, while continuing to innovate and serve a diverse population, in a briefing with JPC - The Jerusalem Press Club.

Watch the full interview on YouTube here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rm7PIk8Comw

Dr. Tsvi Sheleg, Deputy Director of Galilee Medical Center, Nahariya, Israel, in northern Israel, explains what it means to operate a hospital near an active conflict border. The hospital remains fully functional while facing repeated security challenges. Watch now. #...

06/07/2026

Standing with Israel. Supporting the Galilee.

As part of the annual CUFI (Christians United for Israel) Summit in Washington, D.C., the Galilee Medical Center delegation had the privilege of meeting with dedicated friends and supporters of the medical center from across the United States.
Pictured are Galilee Medical Center Director Prof. Massad Barhoum and his wife, Dr. Marie Barhoum, together with Ayala Shaul-Erez, CEO of the Friends of Galilee Medical Center Association, and Aya Kagade, Director of the Interventional Affairs Department, during a warm and meaningful meeting with Pastor John Hagee, Founder and President of Christians United for Israel (CUFI), and Diana Hagee, who welcomed the delegation from Israel with heartfelt warmth.
The conference provides an important opportunity to thank our friends and partners for their steadfast support of Galilee Medical Center, Israel's frontline hospital, which continues to provide lifesaving medical care even during the most challenging times.
We are deeply grateful to all of our partners and friends who stand with Galilee Medical Center and help strengthen the medical resilience of Israel's northern communities.
Friends of Galilee Medical Center Association


Christians United for Israel (CUFI)
עמותת ידידי המרכז הרפואי לגליל

06/07/2026

Major Milestone for Northern Israel: Innovative Cardiac Device Successfully Implanted at Galilee Medical Center for the First Time.

The breakthrough offers new hope for patients suffering from chronic refractory angina whose symptoms can no longer be relieved through conventional treatments such as stents or bypass surgery. The unique device improves blood flow to the heart muscle and can dramatically reduce pain.

For the first time at Galilee Medical Center in Nahariya, physicians have successfully implanted an innovative Coronary Sinus Reducer (CSR) device manufactured by Shockwave Medical. The procedure was performed on a patient suffering from Chronic Refractory Angina, a condition characterized by severe chest pain resulting from inadequate blood supply to the heart, despite the absence of any viable treatment option through conventional catheterization procedures or coronary bypass surgery.

The procedure represents a significant medical advancement for patients who are often left with limited treatment options. The innovative hourglass-shaped device is implanted in a vein of the heart, where it alters pressure dynamics and redirects oxygen-rich blood flow to areas of the heart muscle experiencing inadequate perfusion. As a result, patients can experience substantial pain relief and a dramatic improvement in their quality of life.

The complex procedure was led by Dr. Sholy Haitham, Director of the Interventional Cardiology Unit, with the professional support of Prof. Maayan Konigstein.

Dr. Sholy Haitham: "This is a significant breakthrough for many patients who, until now, have been left without an adequate medical solution to address their suffering. The combination of advanced diagnostic technology, which for the first time allows us to accurately assess coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD), a condition that was previously difficult to identify, together with implantation of the innovative CSR device, opens a new era of personalized medicine. We can now provide a genuine therapeutic solution that significantly improves patients' quality of life and offers them renewed hope."

Prof. Khetam Hussein, Deputy Director of Galilee Medical Center: "Behind these complex technological terms are people who have been living with debilitating daily pain, often without any solution in sight. Our mission is to ensure that residents of the Galilee and northern Israel do not have to travel far to receive the most advanced medical care available anywhere in the world. The introduction of this innovative treatment is part of a broader vision led by the medical center's leadership, one that combines clinical excellence with human compassion and helps restore to our patients the daily lives and quality of life they deserve."

Prof. Masad Barhoum, Director of Galilee Medical Center: "Galilee Medical Center will continue to lead the adoption and implementation of the most advanced technologies at the forefront of global cardiology for the benefit of the residents of northern Israel."