Changing characteristics of the Israeli population and the utilization of health care services.

Total national expenditure on health in Israel increased by 60% during the 1970s, and the portion of the gross national product allocated to health care rose from 5.2 to 7.7%. The growth in the country's total population during the same period was 30%. One major factor in the expansion of health care expenditures was the growth of the elderly population, both in absolute and relative terms. The utilization of health care services by the elderly substantially exceeds the national average. Health care requirements among the elderly vary significantly by demographic variables such as sex and marital status. Examination of demographic developments is required for an understanding of the development of health care services.