In 2013, a renovated building was inaugurated to serve as an ambulatory oncology institute for cancer patients from the Western Galilee. The institute was opened by Prof. Masad Barhoum, together with Mr. Meir Burkis, who dedicated the facility in memory of his late wife and generously contributed to the establishment of both the institute and the adjoining garden. The institute features private treatment spaces and dedicated rooms for physicians and staff, designed to create a supportive and healing environment.

The Friends of the Galilee Medical Center Association, along with private donors, organizations, and institutions, also contributed to the development of the Oncology Institute in memory of Miriam (Mori) Burkis, of blessed memory. Among the prominent donors were the family members of the late Charles Harris from England, who gave generously in support of the project.

The Fund for the Development of the Oncology Institute, in collaboration with the Friends of the Galilee Medical Center Association and the Burkis family, continues to raise funds to enhance oncology care for the residents of northern Israel through meaningful and innovative projects:

The “Ice Cap” project

This innovative scalp cooling cap is designed for patients undergoing chemotherapy, helping to prevent hair loss. The ergonomically designed, portable, and comfortable cap is approved by both the U.S. FDA and the Israeli Ministry of Health.

The cap consists of two customized layers and is worn during chemotherapy and for up to two hours after treatment. By cooling the hair follicles on the scalp, it gradually constricts blood vessels and slows down cellular metabolism, thereby reducing the impact of chemotherapy on the follicles and helping to prevent hair loss.

The cap is computer-controlled, circulating and regulating a cooling liquid throughout the treatment. Its ergonomic design allows for freedom of movement and comfort for both patient and caregiver.

This breakthrough technology offers new hope for cancer patients, and the Galilee Medical Center aspires to acquire these caps to ease the physical and emotional challenges faced by patients during treatment.

The Hematology Institute and PET scan project:

A new Hematology Institute is planned, which will include a PET-CT scanner for the diagnosis and treatment of both benign and malignant blood diseases.

Over the past two years, there has been a significant increase in demand for hemato-oncological treatments due to advances in research and early diagnosis. Establishing the new institute and equipping it with a PET-CT device will improve access to timely, efficient diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. It will also provide a state-of-the-art and supportive environment for patients and their families.

Currently, PET-CT availability in northern Israel is very limited, forcing patients to wait long periods of time or travel far for a scan, an ordeal that disrupts continuity of care and may endanger patients’ health.

Integrating a PET-CT services within the Galilee Medical Center will significantly enhance treatment outcomes, expand the field of nuclear medicine, encourage advanced clinical research, and serve as a training and research facility for medical students from the Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University.

To donate to these projects or others, please click here