Hadassah Hospital Faces Allegations of Political Appointments and Sexual Misconduct

A new investigative report into Jerusalem's Hadassah Hospital alleges a pattern of political appointments and favoritism, particularly benefiting associates of the Likud and Shas parties. The report details how individuals with political connections, including the son of a Shas-affiliated official, secured positions and expedited services, such as shortened waiting times.

Dalia Itzik, the hospital's board chair, is accused of orchestrating these appointments, allegedly under political pressure. Her former aide, Avi Balshnikov, is also implicated, having accompanied Itzik on a costly delegation to India funded by Hadassah. The report highlights the hiring of Yifat Ben-Chigev, a key witness in Case 4000 who changed her testimony, as the hospital's marketing deputy director without a tender or prior experience. She subsequently brought Shlomo Filber, another state witness in the same case, to the hospital.

The investigation also presents serious allegations against Professor Alon Pikovsky, head of surgery at Hadassah and Prime Minister Netanyahu's personal physician, who is reportedly slated to become the hospital's CEO. Multiple women have come forward with accusations of sexual harassment and misconduct against Pikovsky. One former doctor described instances of sexual advances after late-night surgeries, while another patient alleged sexual assault during a medical examination. The hospital's handling of a formal complaint from one patient was described as dismissive and aimed at protecting Pikovsky.

Further testimonies describe a hostile and objectifying atmosphere in operating rooms under Pikovsky's leadership, with alleged instances of him mocking unconscious patients. Professional misconduct is also cited, including a surgical error followed by Pikovsky abandoning the operating room. Despite these grave accusations, Hadassah reportedly intends to proceed with Pikovsky's appointment as CEO in January.

Hadassah Hospital has dismissed the report as biased gossip and praised its medical care. Professor Pikovsky denied the allegations as lies and distortions, stating he has had no prior complaints in his decades-long career. The Ministry of Interior defended the appointment of Gabi Biton Bar-On as a municipal advisor, citing a professional and cost-effective selection process. Shas stated it had no involvement in Bar-On's appointment or departure from the Elad municipality, while Elad city hall asserted his hiring was legal and professional.