Friends for Health: Recycling Unused Medicine

In an era of rising living costs, one Israeli organization is making a remarkable difference in healthcare accessibility. Friends for Health (Haverim L’Refuah), founded in 2003 by Baruch Lieberman in Bnei Brak, has pioneered an innovative solution to a pressing healthcare challenge: redistributing unused medications to those who cannot afford them.

The Scale of the Problem

The statistics are staggering. According to a recent Jerusalem Post report, approximately NIS 500 million worth of unexpired medicines are destroyed annually in Israel. This wastage occurs while many elderly Israelis face the difficult choice between purchasing vital medications or buying basic food items.

A Systematic Approach to Medicine Redistribution

Friends for Health has developed a comprehensive system for collecting and redistributing unused medications. The organization has established an impressive network of 1,075 collection centers throughout Israel. These include Super-Pharm locations nationwide, all Bank Mizrahi branches, various hospitals, and many private homes. All collection points can be easily located through their websites: eng.haverim.org.il for English speakers and haverim.org.il for Hebrew speakers. In a move toward greater accessibility, Lieberman has expressed openness to translating the websites into additional languages, including Russian and Amharic.

The process is carefully supervised and operates within legal frameworks. The organization works closely with the Health Ministry to ensure all redistributions meet proper safety and regulatory standards. Professional pharmacists and healthcare workers volunteer their time to inspect and process the medications, ensuring that only safe, unexpired medicines reach those in need.

Beyond Basic Distribution

The organization’s impact extends beyond medication redistribution. They’ve launched educational initiatives to help patients understand crowdfunding opportunities for expensive medications. During crises, such as the Israel-Hamas war, they’ve provided crucial support to evacuees needing medical supplies.

The Human Impact

The organization’s volunteer base includes 2,000 dedicated individuals, from physicians to pharmacists. These professionals handle an average of 5,000 medication packages monthly, ensuring they reach those who need them most. This systematic approach not only helps those in need but also prevents waste and environmental damage from medication disposal.

Looking Forward

As healthcare costs continue to rise, organizations like Friends for Health demonstrate how community-driven initiatives can create practical solutions to complex social challenges. Their work not only addresses immediate medical needs but also contributes to environmental sustainability by preventing medication waste.

Based on reporting by Judy Siegel-Itzkovitz, The Jerusalem Post, January 5, 2024