[Community mental health in Israel]

The current state of mental health care in Israel is described, considering the historical and sociodemographic background. Predominating are community out-patient clinics and cooperation of out-patient and in-patient services, whereas the number of beds and the size of wards is comparatively small. The country is consequently divided into catchment areas with a flexible adjustment according to the geographical characteristics and practical means. Generally the centres are richly staffed instead of expensive buildings. In a short amount of time and by comparatively small means, a modern and humane psychiatric and psychotherapeutic care has been established, fairly meeting the needs of the patient concerned.