Family physicians in Israel act as primary managers and gatekeepers for patients with type 2 diabetes. They handle initial diagnosis, prescribe first-line medications, and provide routine follow-up care. These doctors coordinate the patient journey, only referring to specialists like Dr. Naftali Shtern at Sourasky Medical Center when complex complications arise.
- Initial diagnosis. Physicians order first blood tests and confirm diabetes before any specialist referral occurs.
- Routine management. Doctors review glucose results and adjust medications for daily diabetes control.
- Preventive screenings. Family doctors coordinate essential referrals for eye exams and specialized diabetes education.
- Specialist coordination. They act as central points of care, navigating patients toward endocrinologists when necessary.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While family physicians manage everyday care, complex pediatric cases often skip general practitioners entirely. Specialists like Dr. Naomi Vayntrub or Dr. Uri Eal at Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) provide immediate, dedicated endocrine care for children and adolescents, reflecting Israel's highly specialized approach to pediatric diabetes.
Patient Consensus: Patients find that family doctors are the main contact for medication refills and practical lifestyle adjustments. They often handle everything from blood test reviews to deciding if a specialist visit is actually needed.
