Kaplan Hospital Investigates Suspected Unconsented Blood Draws for Research

Kaplan Hospital in Rehovot announced Sunday that it filed a police complaint last week concerning alleged misconduct within its cardiology department. The hospital suspects that blood was drawn from patients without their consent as part of a research study conducted in a hospital laboratory. In addition to the police complaint, the hospital administration has informed the Ministry of Health about the suspicions and the actions taken. The Ministry of Health stated it received a report from the hospital director regarding the complaint's details and the investigation process, including the decision to file a police report. The ministry affirmed it would pursue the serious complaint in coordination with the police, utilizing its legal authority. Taking blood, like any medical procedure, requires patient consent, who must be aware of all risks, consequences, and alternatives. Except in rare circumstances, informed consent is mandatory for all medical procedures and research to ensure patients understand the implications and can freely agree. Under the Patient Rights Law and Public Health Regulations, performing a medical procedure or research without informed consent can be considered assault or negligence.