(VIDEO IN EXTENDED ARTICLE)

In the accompanying video, it is explained that a new program is in the works in Kaplan Hospital in Rehovot by which medical clowns accompany pediatric patients to surgery. This appears to significantly reduce the stress of the young patient heading into a surgical procedure. A medical clown will also be at the pediatric patient’s bedside when s/he awakens from surgery.

The medical clowns at Kaplan have become an integral part of the hospital’s services. Medical clown Anat Sonnenfeld, who is seen in the video and photos, explains, “Our presence creates a personal and intimate connection with the child and the family, and we are constantly receiving positive feedback from the parents about a pleasant experience they underwent with our accompaniment in reducing stress and anxiety.”

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem/Photo Credit: אפרת שררה, קפלן)