In this inspiring episode of IsraelCast, host Steven Shalowitz welcomes back Dr. Tsvi Sheleg, Deputy Director of the Galilee Medical Center (GMC), to discuss the groundbreaking innovations and unwavering resilience of Israel's northernmost hospital. Broadcasting from just five miles south of the Lebanese border, Dr. Sheleg reveals how GMC transformed wartime challenges into opportunities for technological and humanitarian leadership.

Dr. Sheleg—an accomplished ophthalmologist, medical administrator, and decorated Israel Defense Forces officer—shares how GMC's underground, missile-proof facilities enabled continuous care during recent conflicts. He also spotlights the hospital's innovation hub, "GMC Playground," which has launched dozens of health-tech collaborations and startups, with support from Microsoft and Viz.ai.

A vocal champion of diversity, Dr. Sheleg describes how Jews, Muslims, Christians, Druze, and Circassians work side-by-side at GMC, treating soldiers and civilians alike—including over 3,000 wounded Syrians during their civil war. His call to action is clear: support Israel's Galilee, where health-tech meets heart, and where healing transcends borders.

 

Dr. Tsvi Sheleg, MD, MBA, serves as Deputy Director of the Galilee Medical Center, overseeing emergency preparedness and founding the hospital's renowned Innovation Program. An ophthalmologist by training, he continues to perform cataract surgeries and was recognized for his leadership as COVID-19 project manager. A decorated IDF officer, Dr. Sheleg serves as medical director of the IDF Field Hospital and has led humanitarian missions to Haiti, Nepal, and Turkey. He earned his medical degree from Ben-Gurion University and an executive MBA from Tel Aviv University. Born in Tel Aviv, he lives in Mitzpe Hila with his wife and two children.