Health Ministry Shuts Private Hospital Over Unqualified Staff, Illegal Procedures

The Israeli Ministry of Health has issued an immediate closure order for the private "Medika" hospital in Tel Aviv's Ramat Hachayal neighborhood following a surprise inspection that revealed severe operational failures and patient safety risks. The inspection uncovered instances where nurses performed surgical procedures typically reserved for doctors, and other medical actions were carried out in violation of professional authorities and regulations.

The ministry stated that the findings indicated a systemic failure in the hospital's management, posing an immediate and serious danger to patients' health and safety. Consequently, hospital management, owners, and the board of directors will be summoned for a hearing. The ministry is also investigating individual accountability for those who performed actions beyond their professional scope.

This is not the first time "Medika" has faced scrutiny. In July, a surprise inspection at its "Medika Rafael" facility led to an immediate halt of surgical activities. Operations were only gradually resumed after the facility committed to rectifying deficiencies and adhering to licensing terms.

In response, "Medika" Tel Aviv asserted that it performs thousands of surgeries monthly by top Israeli doctors, meeting the highest medical and safety standards. The hospital stated that patient safety and treatment quality are paramount and characterized the ministry's decision as sweeping and disproportionate, based on random findings. They indicated they would respond through appropriate channels.