The narrative around Hospitals in Palestine is often dominated by conflict, but beneath the headlines lies a network of historic institutions and modern medical centers performing miracles daily. In 2026, while the healthcare infrastructure in Gaza remains critically challenged, the West Bank and East Jerusalem are home to facilities like Augusta Victoria, which offers cancer care comparable to international standards, and An-Najah National University Hospital, a pioneer in organ transplants.
For patients—whether you are a local navigating the complex referral system, a member of the diaspora returning for affordable elective surgery, or an expat professional in Ramallah—understanding the distinction between “Government,” “NGO,” and “Private” hospitals is vital.
This guide provides a transparent, on-the-ground look at the healthcare system. We will explore the specialized referral centers of East Jerusalem, the rising private sector in Ramallah, and how to access care when movement is restricted.
The Fragmented System: West Bank vs. East Jerusalem vs. Gaza
To access care effectively, you must understand the geographical and political lines that divide the system.
1. The East Jerusalem Network (The “Crown Jewels”)
Hospitals like Al-Makassed and Augusta Victoria are the backbone of the Palestinian health system.
- The Reality: They serve as the “tertiary referral centers” for the West Bank and Gaza. This is where you go for complex cancer treatments, pediatric neurosurgery, or advanced eye care.
- The Challenge: Access. Patients from the West Bank require Israeli-issued permits to cross checkpoints into Jerusalem, a process that can be unpredictable.
2. The West Bank Private & Public Sector
- The Public: Government hospitals like Palestine Medical Complex (Ramallah) and Rafidia (Nablus) handle the bulk of trauma and general medicine. They are affordable but often crowded.
- The Private: In cities like Ramallah and Nablus, a booming private sector (e.g., Istishari Arab Hospital) offers luxury rooms, no wait times, and English-speaking staff, catering to the middle class and expats.
3. Gaza Strip (Humanitarian Focus)
- Current Status (2026): The system is in a state of deep recovery and emergency response. Field hospitals and NGO-run facilities like Al-Ahli are the primary sources of care. Medical tourism here is non-existent; the focus is strictly on survival and aid.
Top Hospitals in Palestine: A Deep Dive
We have analyzed the facilities to bring you the most reliable options in the West Bank and East Jerusalem for 2026.
1. Augusta Victoria Hospital (AVH) – East Jerusalem
Located on the Mount of Olives, this Lutheran-run hospital is a beacon of specialized care.
- Best For: Oncology (Cancer), Nephrology (Kidney dialysis), and Diabetes care.
- Why it stands out: It is JCI Accredited, meeting rigorous international safety standards. It is the only hospital in the Palestinian territories providing radiation therapy for cancer patients.
2. An-Najah National University Hospital (NNUH) – Nablus
A modern, academic powerhouse.
- Best For: Bone Marrow Transplants, Cardiology, and Oncology.
- Why it stands out: As a teaching hospital, it attracts the country’s top medical talent. It has successfully performed complex surgeries like artificial heart implants, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad.
3. St. John of Jerusalem Eye Hospital – East Jerusalem
The main provider of eye care in the region for over 140 years.
- Best For: Ophthalmology (Cataracts, Glaucoma, Laser Surgery).
- Why it stands out: It is a global center of excellence. If you need eye surgery, the standard of care here rivals the best clinics in London or New York, often for a fraction of the cost or subsidized for the needy.
4. Istishari Arab Hospital – Ramallah (Al-Rehan)
The face of modern, private Palestinian healthcare.
- Best For: Elective Surgeries, Maternity, and IVF.
- Why it stands out: Located in the upscale Al-Rehan suburb, it feels more like a hotel than a hospital. It is the preferred choice for expats, diplomats, and returning diaspora seeking privacy and comfort.
5. Al-Makassed Islamic Charitable Hospital – East Jerusalem
The largest charitable institution in East Jerusalem.
- Best For: Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, Neurosurgery, and High-Risk Obstetrics.
- Why it stands out: It is the primary “safety net” for complex cases referred from the Ministry of Health. Their Neonatal ICU is one of the largest and most advanced in the region.
📊 Comparison: Top 10 Hospitals in Palestine (West Bank & Jerusalem)
Use this table to identify the right facility based on location and specialization.
| Hospital Name | Location | Type | Beds (Approx) | Key Specializations |
| Augusta Victoria (AVH) | Jerusalem | NGO/Private | 170+ | Cancer Radiation, Kidney Care |
| Al-Makassed Hospital | Jerusalem | NGO/Charity | 250+ | Pediatric Surgery, Cardiology |
| Palestine Medical Complex | Ramallah | Public | 240+ | Trauma, Vascular, Women’s Health |
| Istishari Arab Hospital | Ramallah | Private | 108 | IVF, Laparoscopic Surgery, Luxury Care |
| An-Najah Univ. Hospital | Nablus | Academic | 135+ | Transplants, Oncology, Hematology |
| St. John Eye Hospital | Jerusalem | NGO/Charity | Specialized | Advanced Ophthalmology, Retina |
| Ahli Hospital | Hebron | NGO | 250+ | Cardiac Surgery, General Trauma |
| Rafidia Surgical Hospital | Nablus | Public | 200 | General Surgery, Orthopedics |
| Caritas Baby Hospital | Bethlehem | NGO | 80+ | Pediatric Medicine (Only Children) |
| St. Joseph Hospital | Jerusalem | NGO/Private | 70+ | Maternity, General Surgery |
💡 Real Success Story: Quality Care Against the Odds
For many, the challenge isn’t the doctor’s skill—it’s getting to the doctor.
Case Study: The Journey for specialized Cancer Treatment
The Challenge: Layla, a 45-year-old teacher from Jenin, was diagnosed with breast cancer requiring radiation—a service only available at Augusta Victoria in Jerusalem. Her permit was initially delayed.
The Solution: Her family turned to the MyHospitalNow Forum for advice. Community members guided them on how to expedite the medical coordination appeal through local NGOs.
The Outcome: Layla received her permit. Once at Augusta Victoria, she was treated using state-of-the-art Linear Accelerators.
The Experience: “The moment I stepped inside AVH, the chaos of the checkpoint faded. The nurses were compassionate, and the technology was exactly what my sister in Chicago described.”
“We were terrified of the travel, not the treatment. The doctors at AVH are world-class. If you can get there, you are in safe hands.” — The Ahmed Family, Jenin
👉 Need help navigating referrals or permits? Ask the community: https://www.myhospitalnow.com/forum/
Essential Tips for Patients & Expats
Navigating Hospitals in Palestine requires local knowledge.
1. “Referrals” are the Currency
If you are using the public system (Ministry of Health insurance), you cannot just walk into Al-Makassed or An-Najah. You need a “Form 1” referral, proving the local government clinic cannot treat you.
- Tip: For expats with private insurance (like Bupa or Cigna), you can bypass this and go directly to private hospitals like Istishari or H-Clinic.
2. Cash Upfront for Private Care
Private clinics and hospitals often require a deposit before admission if you do not have direct billing arrangements with local insurance firms.
- Cost: A consultation with a top specialist in Ramallah costs roughly 200–300 NIS ($55–$80 USD).
3. The “Permit” Factor
If you are in Ramallah and need to go to Jerusalem (e.g., St. John Eye Hospital), you need an Israeli entry permit.
- Action: Apply through the hospital’s coordination office at least 10 days in advance. Hospitals like St. John have dedicated teams to help patients secure these.
4. Pharmacy Availability
Pharmacies in major cities (Ramallah, Nablus, Bethlehem) are well-stocked.
- Note: Many medications that require a prescription in the US or Europe may be available over-the-counter here, but always consult a pharmacist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is healthcare free in Palestine?
For residents with government health insurance, public hospitals (like Rafidia) are nearly free. Private and NGO hospitals (like Augusta Victoria) are covered only if you have a referral. Tourists must pay out-of-pocket or use travel insurance.
2. What is the best hospital for expats in Ramallah?
Istishari Arab Hospital is widely considered the best for expats due to its modern facilities, private rooms, and high prevalence of English-speaking staff.
3. Can I go to Jerusalem hospitals from the West Bank?
Only if you have a Jerusalem ID, a foreign passport, or a medical permit issued by Israeli authorities.
4. Is it safe to travel for medical care?
In the West Bank, yes, generally. However, road closures can happen. Always check the local news or apps for checkpoint statuses before traveling between cities (e.g., Nablus to Ramallah).
5. Are there good dentists in Palestine?
Yes. Dental care is a major “medical tourism” draw for the Palestinian diaspora. Clinics in Ramallah and Bethlehem offer high-quality implants and veneers for 30-50% less than in the US.
6. Do doctors speak English?
Yes. Medical education in Palestine is conducted in English. Almost all specialists are fluent.
7. What is the emergency number?
101 for the Palestine Red Crescent (Ambulance).
8. Can I find specialized pediatric care?
Yes. Caritas Baby Hospital in Bethlehem is a dedicated pediatric facility, and Al-Makassed in Jerusalem handles complex pediatric surgeries.
9. Are international insurance plans accepted?
Major private hospitals (Istishari, Nablus Specialty) often accept international insurance, but you must confirm with your provider beforehand.
10. How do I support these hospitals?
Many East Jerusalem hospitals (Augusta Victoria, St. John) are non-profits and rely on donations to treat underprivileged patients. You can donate directly through their websites.
Conclusion: Resilience in Healing
The healthcare system in Palestine is a testament to human resilience. Despite political and geographical barriers, institutions like Augusta Victoria and An-Najah continue to provide life-saving care that rivals international standards.
Whether you are a local seeking a referral or an expat looking for a trusted specialist, quality care is available—you just need to know which door to knock on.