IDF Expands Training for Doctors and Paramedics to Boost Battlefield Medical Response

In a bid to enhance the medical response during military operations, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) is significantly expanding its training programs for doctors and paramedics. Major General Michel Yanko, head of the IDF Technology and Logistics Directorate, presented a comprehensive plan to the General Staff aimed at improving medical training based on lessons learned from previous conflicts with Hamas and Hezbollah.

The importance of having medical personnel present on the battlefield has been highlighted in the wake of these wars. Studies showed that the presence of doctors and paramedics not only saves lives but also provides a sense of security to soldiers, improving their performance in combat. The increased medical presence has been shown to raise survival rates, reduce injury severity, and shorten medical evacuation times.

To build on this success, the IDF is expanding its medical training programs. Yanko’s plan includes a major expansion of the IDF's "Tzameret" program, which focuses on military medicine studies and prepares doctors through the academic reserve track. The program has already seen significant growth, with the number of students increasing year on year, from 65 in 2022 to 106 in 2024, with even more expected in 2026.

Furthermore, the paramedic training program has seen similar growth. While two courses trained 110 paramedics annually until 2022, the number of trained paramedics increased to 140 in 2024, with an expected 160 in 2025. By 2026, the IDF plans to raise this number to 200 paramedics.

Yanko’s proposal also includes updating training content and enhancing the skills of medical personnel. New drills and techniques in counterterrorism operations, enhanced combat fitness, and resilience have been incorporated, all aimed at preparing medical staff for the challenges of modern warfare. Importantly, the IDF has maintained high admission standards for these programs, ensuring that only the best candidates are selected for this crucial role.