Dr. Matan: Balancing Life on the Frontlines and in the Hospital

Dr. Matan has recently concluded an extraordinary 15 months as a reservist combat doctor in an elite IDF unit while simultaneously managing the Urology Department at Laniado Hospital. Specialising in kidney, bladder, and prostate care, he embodies dedication both to his country and his patients.

In a recent interview, Dr. Matan admitted, "Many times, I’m torn between my patients and my duties in the reserves, but I understand it’s a choice between two goods."

At just 43, Dr. Matan juggles an impressive array of roles: soldier, frontline doctor, department head, husband, father of seven, and devout Torah scholar. His secret? "When your life is built on values—Torah, kindness, medicine, family, and Zionism—you can accomplish anything."

From a young age, Matan chose a path of purpose. Raised in a supportive family, he and his siblings pursued higher education despite challenges. After earning high honours at Hebrew University, he completed a residency in urology at Hadassah Medical Centre and a subspecialty in reconstructive urology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre in Manhattan. He also holds a master’s degree in public health, lectures at Ben Gurion University, and is a member of esteemed urological associations worldwide.

Many times, I’m torn between my patients and my duties in the reserves.

In 2023, he became the director of Laniado’s Urology Department. Yet, as the war unfolded, Dr. Matan was called back to the frontlines. “On Simchat Torah, I was already deployed as a combat doctor. Despite the hardships, the unity of our people was deeply encouraging. In Gaza, under our helmets, there’s no politics—just mutual love and support.”

This unity was tested with the loss of two unit members, Gal and Eyal, during Hanukkah. “Although death is no stranger to me, their loss deeply affected me,” he reflected.

Returning home briefly, he faced another challenge: the toll the war took on his family. "I saw how the burden of raising the children and managing the house fell entirely on my wife. Her sacrifice is immense."

Balancing his roles remains daunting. “I’m constantly torn between my patients and my duties in the reserves. It’s a painful choice, but it’s between two goods. This war, however, has united Israel in ways we desperately needed. At the hospital and on the frontlines, I’ve witnessed incredible love and support.”

Dr. Matan’s story is one of resilience, values, and unwavering dedication to his nation, his family, and his calling.