Canadian Physicians for Israel 2019

In November, eight doctors from Canada completed an intensive five-day, 50-hour course at Magen David Adom in Israel.  The group included specialists in emergency medicine, internal medicine, neurology, and orthopedic surgery, as well as general practitioners.

These doctors are part of the International Emergency Unit – a unit that continues to grow with participating doctors not only from Canada, but world-wide as well. Their training with MDA enables them to fly to Israel and volunteer with MDA in cases of emergencies or mass casualty events.


The course included shifts on MDA ambulances and Mobile Intensive Care Units, tours of the National Operations Centre and National Blood Centre, and treating patients during a drill.


Dr. Jason Berman, a course participant, said, “It has been a privilege for us to learn from MDA’s instructors and teams and work alongside them so that we can treat Israeli citizens when needed.  I am glad that I can see myself as part of this family and I look forward to sharing in Canada the experience I gained in Israel.”


Shortly after the physicians returned to Canada, CMDA National Media and Volunteer Director and the program coordinator, Daniel Amzallag, who had remained in Israel, was caught up in the recent escalation.  With dozens of rockets being fired on Israel, Daniel, who is also a paramedic, immediately provided assistance on MDA ambulances.