As a result of both the quantity and nature of the emergencies witnessed by Magen David Adom’s brave first responders in the past two years, the organization has set in place clear protocols to detect and prevent PTSD among its staff
It takes a certain type of person to willingly rush to the scenes of medical emergencies on a daily basis and to actively treat wounded people, some of whom have severe, life-threatening injuries and require aggressive medical procedures to save their lives. Yet, even the most hardened, experienced first responders are still human and are inevitably affected by what they see and do.
Magen David Adom (MDA) – Israel’s national ambulance, blood and disaster-relief service – has always been completely immersed in its mission of saving as many lives as possible. During the horrific events of October 7, 2023 and the subsequent war, thousands of MDA paramedics and EMTs have been rushing to save victims of innumerable terror attacks and missile hits throughout Israel – often putting themselves in direct danger while they are rescuing others. Their selfless devotion and professionalism during these difficult times have further boosted MDA’s already excellent reputation, and the organization’s employees and volunteers are proud of their essential role saving lives.
Early intervention
The organization is fully aware of the toll that this vocation can take on its devoted staffers, both employees and volunteers, and feels a deep responsibility to protect their mental health – all the more so in the last two years.
MDA staffers invariably report that the organization is like a second family. It is therefore not surprising that its members care so much about each other and are committed to safeguarding everyone’s wellbeing. As such, a great deal of effort is being invested in protecting the mental health of all MDA employees and volunteers – most of whom regularly witness traumatic incidents.
“MDA is responsible for the health of its people, and not just their physical health,” says Raphael Herbst, who commands MDA’s reserve unit in the IDF’s Home Front Command and is a leader of MDA’s resilience program. He explains that today there is a much greater awareness than in the past regarding the possible impact of their work on their mental health, and Magen David Adom is committed to ensuring that its members avoid developing PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder).
