MDA israel

Most Israelis serve some form of national service at the age 18, with many joining the IDF or the police. There is another option of civilian national service, often chosen by those from a religious background, from Arab communities, or others who for various reasons can’t undertake military service.

For many years Magen David Adom has had EMTs volunteer for their national service, but this particular paramedic course was a new idea just a few years ago. Those taking part complete part of their paramedic course in preparation for their service, and then complete their two years of national service as fully qualified Magen David Adom paramedics. 

At the end of their service they hold a paramedic certificate, and many choose to stay on as employees once their national service has ended.

Tair, 20, started with MDA as a youth volunteer. Three years later she started her national service as an EMT, joined the Paramedic Course half way through, and has volunteered for an extra year of national service just so that she can complete the course.

The National Service Paramedic Course has trained hundreds of new paramedics over the past five years. All paramedics in Israel are trained by Magen David Adom in a variety of different courses, through universities, the IDF, or in house, and now – with National Service volunteers.