Doctors Overburdened as Inflammatory Bowel Disease Cases Climb in Israel

Jerusalem, 7 August, 2025 (TPS-IL) — The number of Israelis diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is projected to reach 100,000 within five years, up from nearly 70,000 today, Lawmakers of the Knesset Health Committee were told.

Despite guidelines limiting doctors to 400 IBD patients each, many are treating over 1,000, MKs reviewed efforts to close gaps in care, particularly in peripheral areas. A Ministry of Health working group is drafting new standards, expanding access to emergency treatment, and addressing shortages in specialized clinics and staff. Officials cited long delays, inequities across health funds, and stigma. A proposal for support tests and updated clinic guidelines is underway.