US, Canadian healthcare failing to address rising antisemitism since Oct. 7, review says

Antisemitism in healthcare has surged dramatically since the October 7 Hamas attack, yet educational institutions are failing to adequately address the issue, according to a new peer-reviewed narrative review. The study highlights that fewer than 2% of surveyed healthcare institutions have incorporated education about antisemitism into their anti-discrimination training programs.

The review synthesizes evidence from multiple countries, revealing a substantial increase in reported antisemitism across various health professions, including medicine, psychology, and nursing. In the United States, a recent survey found that 88% of Jewish medical students and physicians reported experiencing antisemitism after October 7, a significant jump from 40% before the date. Over a third reported personally directed incidents, and nearly half experienced it on social media.

Similar trends are evident in the UK and Canada. A 2024 survey of UK healthcare professionals indicated that 95% reported an increase in antisemitism in their daily lives since October 7, with most incidents originating within their healthcare circles. In Canada, the number of medical professionals and students who felt antisemitism was a severe problem in the field leaped from 1% before October 7 to 98% afterward.

The review also notes recurring themes of harassment, social isolation, and hostility in academic and professional settings. It points to a concerning underrepresentation of antisemitism in medical literature compared to other forms of discrimination, with far fewer studies on antisemitism than on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) or racism, despite the recent surge in incidents.