Key Facts
Key Information
About
United Hatzalah is an Israeli non-profit, volunteer-based emergency medical services (EMS) organization that provides free, immediate medical intervention across Israel. Founded in 2006 by Eli Beer through the unification of several smaller local Hatzalah organizations in the aftermath of the Second Lebanon War, it aims to bridge the critical gap between the onset of emergencies and the arrival of traditional ambulances. Headquartered in Jerusalem, the organization operates with a diverse network of over 6,000 volunteers, including Jewish, Muslim, Druze, Christian, women, and non-Jewish individuals, making it unique among global Hatzalah groups for its inclusivity. Volunteers respond using specialized vehicles such as ambucycles (motorcycle ambulances), ambucars, e-bikes, ambuboats, ATVs, and private cars, equipped with medical kits to deliver on-scene aid. In recent developments, United Hatzalah introduced the ambuscooter, a fully equipped electric scooter, to enhance rapid response capabilities. The organization maintains multiple dispatch centers and coordinates with Israel's national EMS system, handling a high volume of calls annually, particularly in urban and conflict-prone areas. It has expanded its services to include psychotrauma and crisis response units, deploying international teams to support communities during disasters and attacks. Financially supported by major donors like the Adelson Family Foundation, United Hatzalah emphasizes unity and lifesaving across religious and ethnic lines, though some independent local Hatzalah groups opted not to join the national entity. Eli Beer continues to lead as president, actively engaging with volunteers to foster community and operational efficiency. United Hatzalah's model has been praised for its speed and volunteer-driven approach but operates in a complex environment amid Israel's security challenges, responding to routine medical emergencies as well as terror incidents and natural disasters. Its growth reflects a commitment to innovative, accessible healthcare, with ongoing efforts to integrate advanced technology and broaden volunteer recruitment.