Health Ministry Shuts Down Tel Aviv Medical Center Over Serious Patient Safety Concerns

The Israeli Ministry of Health ordered the immediate closure of the Medica Medical Center in Ramat Hachayal, Tel Aviv, on September 28, following a surprise inspection that revealed severe deficiencies. The ministry stated that the continued operation of the facility posed a serious risk to patients.

According to the Ministry of Health, the inspection found instances where medical procedures were performed outside of professional authorities and required protocols. The ministry also reported deficiencies in medical conduct and work processes, alleging a systemic failure that compromised patient health and safety. A district physician's order, effective September 28, prohibits the center from conducting any medical activity until further notice.

Medica's management, owners, and board of directors will be summoned for a hearing. The Ministry of Health is also considering personal sanctions against individuals who acted beyond their authority. This is not the first time the ministry has identified serious issues at Medica; in July, significant shortcomings were found at Medica Rafael, leading to the suspension of operating room activities. Operations were gradually resumed after the identified deficiencies were rectified and the network's management committed to adhering to licensing conditions.

Medica issued a statement asserting that thousands of surgeries are performed monthly at the facility, with doctors and staff adhering to medical and safety standards. The network claimed the inspection focused on isolated incidents and deemed the ministry's decision sweeping and disproportionate. Medica stated they would clarify their position with the Ministry of Health and advised patients scheduled for treatment or surgery at Medica Tel Aviv to seek direct updates from the center before arriving.