Eilat Retains Autism Services Following Successful Advocacy by "Oti" Association
Following a funding dispute with the Ministry of Health, the "Oti" association will continue providing developmental medical care in Eilat's kindergartens for the upcoming school year. This outcome spares families from long waits, travel, and the burden of private therapy costs.
"Oti" - The Israeli Autism Association, is the only organization providing TABAM (developmental medical care) services in Eilat. Following persistent negotiations with the Ministry of Health to secure funding for therapist travel and employment, the association has confirmed it will remain in the city and continue its operations for the upcoming school year.
In recent years, the association's presence in Eilat was jeopardized by funding shortages. Had the association been forced to leave, families would have faced significant barriers, including long waiting lists at HMOs, the need to travel to distant cities, or the financial burden of paying for private therapists.
By maintaining its local presence, the association ensures that autistic children can receive entitled services directly within their educational institutions, eliminating the need for parents to manage difficult commutes.
CEO of "Oti," Tzipi Nagel-Edelstein, stated:
"For years, Oti has been the only association operating TABAM services in Eilat. The national shortage of paramedical therapists and low appointment availability at HMOs are exacerbated in Eilat due to its geographical isolation. This makes treating an autistic child complex and often more expensive than elsewhere in the country. Driven by a sense of responsibility and the understanding that early childhood is a critical therapeutic window, we fought to remain in the city to ensure these services remain accessible to local residents."
