Ashdod and the Gaza Strip Ashdod is located just 25 km from the Gaza Strip.  Operation Protective Edge in 2014 was the third round of fighting between Israel and Hamas since 2008.  During the fighting, Palestinian terrorists fired around 4,500 rockets and mortars into Israel, many landing in and around Ashdod. On May 29, 2018 alone, militant groups in Gaza launched over 400 rockets towards Israel, underscoring the dramatic need for local hospital services. Beyond supplying the day-to-day medical needs of Ashdod and the region in times of peace, the Hospital was built to be “rocket safe” in view of its proximity to the border.  Every aspect of the unique bomb-shelter design protects patients and staff from missile attacks and from biological and chemical warfare.  This ensures that daily activities continue without interruption during times of conflict.  The Hospital is equipped to handle mass casualty events, and is on constant call to receive wounded soldiers. 

A New Model of Care Samson Assuta Ashdod is Israel's first green, environmentally friendly hospital, with a digital infrastructure that insures real-time communication among medical staff, patients and their families.  Most importantly, Samson Assuta Ashdod will be the hub of a totally integrated community care system where the hospital’s medical staff works in sync with healthcare providers in the community, social services and other community support services. Affiliated with Ben Gurion University Medical School in the Negev, Samson Assuta Ashdod helps train Israel’s next generation of doctors.