Ophthalmic Ward

The ophtalmology ward is the only major medical center in the Negev (south of Israel).

Shortly

The ophtalmology ward serves a population of more than one million inhabitants, including 400,000 children, in a region that accounts for 60% of the country's total land area

It is affiliated to the Faculty of Health Sciences and to the Medical School of Ben-Gurion University.

The ophthalmic ward is a 15 bedded mixed ward, that caters for patients with acute ophthalmic conditions, before and after surgeries, and for patients with severe ocular illnesses.

Ophthalmology Section

The ophtalmic ward provides high quality medical care for a range of patients. The service is provided by a multidisciplinary specialized team of doctors in all the subspecialties of ophthalmology, medical residents, specifically qualified nursery service managed by a Charge Nurse, nursing aides, domestic staff and healthcare assistants.

Upon admission you will be assessed by a nurse, followed by a complete ocular examination by a resident doctor In case of admission prior to surgery, a verbal and written information about the specific surgery and the post operative care will be provided. (Please note! In some cases Electrocardiogram (ECG) test, Chest X-RAY, and blood tests, as well as, other diagnostic procedures will also be obtained during your hospitalization period).

The ward has been recognized as a center of excellence in Soroka medical center.

How to prepare for admission prior to surgery?

A valid referral from a medical doctor.
A list of medication, and of your eye drops (we recommend bringing the bottles themselves with you or to keep a photo on your cellular device).
Summary of relevant medical follow-up
Diagnostic tests:
Blood test including CBC , Chemistry.
patients > 40 years, or any patient who suffer from any cardiovascular disorder should bring a valid ECG.
Patients > 60 years, or any patients who suffer from pulmonary disorders (i.e. COPD / Asthma / Heavy smoker) should bring a valid chest X-RAY.
If you use glasses, you should bring them with you.
Arrive with a companion.
Don't bring any valuable items (Earings, Neckless, Watch etc.).
In case your wear a hearing device you should bring it with you fully charged and functioning.
On the morning of the surgery we recommend you to have a shower, wash your hair, remove any make-up or nail polish.

Note! Some procedures (i.e. glaucoma, oculoplastic, strabismus) requires cessation of your blood thinners 3-10 days before surgery (anti coagulants, i.e. Aspirin, Coumadin, Eliquis, Xarelto etc.) – only under a strict approval from your family doctor or cardiologist.

Daily routine

Doctors round 7.30-11.00 AM, Discharge will mostly occur after 12.00 PM.
During your medical visit you will be provided with detailed information regarding your health condition, diagnostic procedures, and of your response to treatment. You will be encouraged to ask questions, and to be involved in the process of diagnosis and treatment.
One companion may join a patient during medical visit.
Any provided information regarding your health condition will be subjected to your approval, and at your presence.

Discharge

Before discharge, information regarding required treatment and follow-up will be provided by a resident doctor, and by a nurse.
You should provide the discharge letter to your family doctor, as soon as possible.

Location

Ophthalmic Ward can be found on the 3rd floor of the "old surgical building" (LINK to hospital map).

Visiting hours

Sunday to Saturday: 8:00 to 20:00 (up to 2 visitors at any one time)
Special permits for visiting outside the established visiting hours may be given to relatives on the discretion of the Charge Nurse.

Useful Contact

To schedule an appointment with the head of the division please contact Mrs. Nitza Ben-Zaken by:
Tel. 08-6400288, Fax. 08-6768821
To schedule a visit with a social worker, dietitian, or physiotherapist, please refer to the Charge Nurse.

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WE WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS OUR SINCERE GRATITUDE FOR THE GENEROSITY OF OUR PHILANTHROPISTS WHO SUPPORT OUR WORK, RESEARCH AND EDUCATION. YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS ARE OF GREAT VALUE TO US.