Fresh off of helping to launch the Jerusalem Marathon and utilizing groundbreaking 3D technology in surgery, Dr. Alona Katzir, orthopedic trauma specialist at Hadassah Hospital Ein Kerem, received a grant from The Edith Pesetzner Estate Endowment Fund –– established by Hadassah in 1987 to support medical fellowships and scholarships –– to spend two years working in New York at the Hospital for Special Surgery. Read on to learn more about the importance of international medical partnerships and how the work Dr. Katzir is doing will benefit Hadassah and its patients in the future.
How long have you worked for Hadassah, and what is your area of expertise?
I went to medical school at Hadassah, did my internship there, and completed my orthopedic residency. Hadassah is my professional home, and I was fortunate to learn from great mentors who helped me become a competent doctor. For the past two years, my main focus has been orthopedic trauma.
Why do you think international medical partnerships are important?
They create opportunities to share knowledge and adopt best practices, which ultimately improve patient care. For me, working with colleagues from different systems is providing new perspectives on tackling medical challenges and advancing research. These connections strengthen our global medical community and help ensure that we continue to grow and improve.
What will you be focusing on while you’re in New York?
My focus is on improving my surgical and research skills and learning new surgical techniques that I can apply back home. It’s ongoing work to stay at the forefront of medical advancement.
What are the highlights so far?
Meeting great physicians whose names you recognize from orthopedic textbooks, seeing so many orthopedic ORs running simultaneously, and, of course, experiencing New York itself — it’s all been a highlight.
What is it like to be away from Israel at this time?
It’s complicated. For example, during the second Iranian missile attack, I was already here. I spent the entire time talking to my family and friends back home, with my heart pounding, unable to focus on anything else. Around me, it was just a normal workday for everyone else. Still, I recognize how crucial it is for Israelis to create and preserve professional connections with colleagues abroad, especially during challenging times. Every opportunity matters.
You were already in training to treat trauma victims when the events of October 7 occurred. How do you think that prepared you for what was to come?
I’m not sure anyone could have been prepared for October 7. I remember being in the hospital that night after the first day of the war — we couldn’t grasp the situation even after treating injured civilians and soldiers all day under extreme conditions. In the following days, realizing the extent of the cruelty was heartbreaking. At the same time, seeing the civil unity was incredibly moving. There are so many wonderful and resilient people in our country. While there are things that need fixing, there is so much that is right. My role was small, but I was grateful to contribute however I could, just like every doctor in my department.
Is this your first post at an American institution?
Yes, it is. It’s fascinating to see how things work in different places.
What do you hope to bring back with you when you return to Hadassah?
I hope to stay updated on the latest advancements in technology, learn new surgical techniques and maintain ongoing connections with colleagues in the US. Additionally, I aim to enhance our research capabilities and bring fresh insights to our work at Hadassah.
What can you tell us about the Hadassah grant that funded this experience?
Coming here is a great privilege, but it has also been a stressful and challenging experience. I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received from my department, my hospital and, of course, Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America. This opportunity wouldn’t have been possible without you!
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