Health Ministry Slams Hadassah Hospital Over Patient's Death, Criticizes Department Head

A Ministry of Health investigation has concluded that a series of incorrect decisions and treatment delays at Hadassah Hospital contributed to the death of a patient in May 2023. The committee, headed by retired Judge Varda Meraz, found that the patient was placed under the care of an inexperienced intern and that the medical treatment deviated from accepted standards. The investigation determined that a specific medical decision led to a critical delay in surgery, which the committee stated "sealed, among other things, the patient's fate."

The report also leveled personal criticism against the head of the department, Professor Alon Pikarsky, for failing to properly investigate the incident and implement necessary lessons. Furthermore, the committee revealed that the case was not reported to the Ministry of Health as legally required, labeling this a "severe failure." Some hospital staff reportedly only learned of the patient's death after the family filed a complaint.

Professor Pikarsky, who also serves as Prime Minister Netanyahu's personal physician, has been at the center of recent controversies. Several female doctors have accused him of sexual harassment and exploitation, and a patient has also filed a complaint against him for sexual harassment during treatment.

Despite these allegations, Carol Ann Schwartz, President of the Hadassah Women's Organization, was seen embracing Pikarsky, an act interpreted by some as support for him over the accusers.

Hadassah Hospital issued a statement asserting that Professor Pikarsky himself reported the incident to the hospital's management. The hospital stated that an investigation was conducted immediately, lessons were learned, and work procedures were clarified, in line with the Ministry of Health's recommendations. The Hadassah Women's Organization also stated it has zero tolerance for sexual harassment and that the hospital thoroughly investigates all complaints.