The field of pediatric medicine is in a state of continuous transformation, presenting both challenges and opportunities on a global scale. In the Middle East, a region often marked by geopolitical complexities, children’s healthcare remains a beacon of progress and collaboration. Despite these challenges, a group of pioneering professionals is reshaping the landscape of pediatric care through cross-border partnerships and innovation.
A Leader in Pediatric Medicine
Under the leadership of Dr. Efrat Bron-Harlev, CEO of Schneider Children’s Medical Center of Israel, the hospital has become a center of excellence in pediatric care. A trained pediatrician, Dr. Bron-Harlev merges her medical knowledge with progressive management approaches to shape the institution’s future. Her focus on holistic patient care, technological advancements, and regional partnerships is making a tangible difference in the lives of children in Israel and across the Middle East.
Situated in Petah Tikva, Schneider Children’s Medical Center is the only fully specialized tertiary care pediatric hospital in Israel and the surrounding region. It has developed into a premier hub for medical innovation, research, and international cooperation, treating young patients from Israel and neighboring countries with state-of-the-art medical solutions.
From Pediatrician to Influential Leader
From an early age, Dr. Bron-Harlev was drawn to pediatric medicine. During her medical education, she found a particular passion for pediatric intensive care, compelled by the challenge of treating critically ill children while supporting their families through difficult times.
She began her professional journey at Schneider Children’s, where she completed her residency in pediatric intensive care. After gaining experience in various leadership roles across different healthcare institutions, she returned to Schneider Children’s in an executive capacity. Reflecting on her appointment as CEO, she shares, “I was honored to lead Israel’s only dedicated pediatric hospital, where our mission is to provide exceptional, cutting-edge, and compassionate care to every child, regardless of background or nationality.”
Dr. Bron-Harlev was inspired by Professor Itamar Shalit, a former CEO of Schneider Children’s, who set an example in managing the intricate relationships between patients, medical staff, and the healthcare system. To enhance her leadership skills, she pursued a Master’s in Management at Harvard Business School through the Wexner Foundation, equipping herself with strategic insights essential for running a major medical institution.
A Collaborative and Inclusive Leadership Approach
Dr. Bron-Harlev fosters a hospital culture where all voices matter. She believes in a leadership model that encourages input from all team members, regardless of rank or experience. “I call it flattening the hierarchy—everyone has valuable insights to contribute, regardless of title or background,” she explains.
By promoting teamwork and valuing diverse perspectives, she has created an environment that nurtures innovative solutions in pediatric medicine. This inclusive philosophy has enabled Schneider Children’s to remain at the forefront of pediatric care, continuously improving treatment methods and patient outcomes.
Expanding the Vision: Healthcare and Regional Cooperation
Dr. Bron-Harlev’s vision for Schneider Children’s extends beyond clinical excellence. “Our goal is not just to treat illnesses but to promote overall well-being,” she states. The hospital integrates art, music, research, and technological advancements into the healing process, equipping young patients and their families with tools that support long-term health.
She also recognizes the importance of regional collaboration in advancing pediatric medicine. Given the genetic and geographic similarities among children in the Middle East, hospitals across the region stand to benefit from shared knowledge and joint initiatives.
The signing of the Abraham Accords between Israel and several Arab nations has opened doors for new medical partnerships. Dr. Bron-Harlev sees these agreements as opportunities to exchange expertise, improve patient care, and facilitate ongoing education. “At Schneider Children’s, we believe that children have the unique ability to unite people across cultures, transcending differences in religion, gender, and nationality,” she affirms.
Innovation and Cutting-Edge Medical Advancements
Under Dr. Bron-Harlev’s leadership, Schneider Children’s has embraced groundbreaking medical advancements. The hospital has pioneered complex surgical procedures and research initiatives that have set new benchmarks in pediatric healthcare.
Key achievements include:
- Performing Israel’s first organ cluster transplant
- Conducting intricate neurosurgical procedures previously unavailable in the country
- Successfully performing open-heart surgery on a premature infant weighing only 780 grams
- Executing the first catheter-based pulmonary valve transplant
Schneider Children’s is also at the forefront of genetic research, contributing to significant discoveries such as identifying genes linked to intellectual disabilities and leading national studies on early detection of juvenile diabetes.
The hospital’s commitment to innovation is exemplified by its dedicated pediatric innovation center, launched two years ago. “This center is the only one of its kind in Israel focused exclusively on children’s health and not rehabilitation, making it one of the few in the world,” Dr. Bron-Harlev explains. The facility supports the development of medical devices, pharmaceuticals, digital health solutions, and telemedicine tailored specifically for pediatric care.
Artificial intelligence also plays a significant role in the hospital’s strategy. “Advancements in AI allow us to move from preventive to proactive medicine—diagnosing diseases before symptoms appear, which has profound medical and economic benefits,” she notes.
Balancing Quality Care with Cost Efficiency
A key challenge in healthcare leadership is ensuring high-quality care while managing costs effectively. Dr. Bron-Harlev advocates for strategic investments in children’s health, emphasizing that preventive care not only benefits patients but also proves economically viable in the long run.
She provides an example: “Biological drugs for chronic conditions, like kidney disease, may seem costly upfront, but they prevent long-term complications that require expensive treatments like dialysis. For an 8-year-old, access to these medications could mean avoiding years of illness and associated healthcare expenses.”
Overcoming Regional Challenges in Pediatric Healthcare
Dr. Bron-Harlev acknowledges that political issues pose the greatest obstacle to improving pediatric healthcare in the region. However, she remains hopeful about the potential for cooperation. “Children’s well-being should always transcend political tensions. The more we recognize this, the more opportunities arise for collaboration,” she asserts.
Notable Achievements Under Dr. Bron-Harlev’s Leadership
Dr. Bron-Harlev’s tenure has seen several transformative developments, including:
- Hospital Expansion: In May 2023, the hospital opened the Glass Building, doubling its size and adding critical care units, a NICU, and Israel’s only dedicated pediatric research and innovation center.
- Crisis Response: During the October 7, 2023, crisis, Schneider Children’s played a crucial role in caring for children returning from captivity in Gaza, pioneering protocols for their rehabilitation.
- Home-Based Hospital Care: The innovative “Hospital from Home” program enables suitable children to receive hospital-level treatment at home, minimizing disruption to family life while maintaining high-quality medical supervision.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Pediatric Healthcare
Dr. Bron-Harlev is particularly excited about the future of pediatric medicine, highlighting advancements in:
- Genetic research and its integration across medical fields
- AI-powered surgeries and therapeutic treatments
- Digital tools that enhance patient engagement and communication
“Technology helps us connect with children in a way they understand, making healthcare more accessible and engaging,” she says.
With continued advancements under Dr. Bron-Harlev’s leadership, Schneider Children’s Medical Center is set to shape the future of pediatric healthcare, not just in Israel but throughout the Middle East and beyond.
