Medica Tel Aviv CEO Resigns Following Severe Health Ministry Findings

Anat Nussbaum, the CEO of the private hospital Medica Tel Aviv, has announced her immediate resignation from the position. The decision comes approximately one month after a severe surprise inspection by the Ministry of Health led to a closure order for the prestigious medical center located in Ramat Hachayal. Nussbaum stated in a message to staff that her resignation stems from a deep belief in responsibility and leadership, emphasizing the moral and managerial weight of her role.

In her letter, Nussbaum expressed her hope that her departure would provide an opportunity for a thorough review and professional feedback, enabling Medica Tel Aviv to improve and resume full operations as a safe and leading medical center. The hospital network's management has appointed Dr. Eitan Chay-Am, a former Director-General of the Ministry of Health and CEO of Soroka Medical Center, as Nussbaum's successor. He is tasked with leading a significant overhaul of safety and work procedures to allow the hospital to reopen.

The Ministry of Health's inspection uncovered life-threatening failures, including a nursing staff performing surgical procedures in place of qualified doctors, anesthesiologists without the required specialization working in two operating rooms, and the illegal use of sensitive narcotic drugs. The Ministry described the situation as a "systemic failure in conduct and a severe and immediate danger to patients' health and safety."

This incident is not the first regulatory issue for the Medica network. In July, similar serious deficiencies were found at another branch, Medica Rafael Hospital, also resulting in a halt of operating room activities. The Ministry of Health is also summoning Medica network management, owners, and board members for a hearing regarding the conduct uncovered, and is considering disciplinary actions against any staff found to have performed medical procedures beyond their professional authority.