Magen David Adom’s International Emergency Unit is currently made up of 80 physicians from around the world. These doctors have committed to come to Israel in the event of a major disaster chas v’sholom, such as a large earthquake. Upon arriving in Israel they would team up with MDA teams working around the country.

This past week 24 doctors arrived in Israel from France to be trained to join the international emergency team. The training includes dealing with the most serious injuries and cardiac emergencies in field settings rather than in hospitals. During their stay the doctors made time to tour a bit to increase their familiarity with Israel. They were also familiarized with Israel’s pre-hospital emergency medical system and the various organizations that are a part of it.

On Thursday morning 15 Tammuz a training exercise was held in Mishor Adumim, a simulated mass trauma event to test the doctors’ skills and their ability to work in the field alongside EMS personnel, firefighters and other emergency agencies.

One of the doctors taking part was Dr. Mishael Zussman, a senior physician from France who hopes to be moving to Israel. At the final ceremony marking the end of their program he said “My family and I have been thinking of making aliyah for many years. This time I joined a MDA team on an ambulance and I assisted in saving lives. For a first time I felt like I am finally a part of this nation”.

Ilan Klein, who heads the project and is the deputy director of the international unit for MDA said “It is with great pride we see how this program which began three years ago has blossomed to over 80 physicians today from around the world, all taking part in this unit”.

MDA Chief Eli Bin praised the effort and the physicians from around the world who are willing to join, adding he hopes within the coming two years they will meet their goal of having 300 doctors on board as certified members of the unit.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem / PHOTOS: MDA Spokesman’s Office)