Israeli Health Ministry Shuts Down Phototherapy Clinic in Bnei Brak Over Hygiene and Staffing Failures

The Israeli Ministry of Health ordered the immediate closure of a recognized phototherapy clinic located on Rabbi Akiva Street in the ultra-Orthodox city of Bnei Brak. This decision followed a surprise inspection that uncovered severe hygiene and operational deficiencies posing an immediate risk to patient safety. The inspection report highlighted a significant shortage of qualified medical staff, improper work processes, and critical failures in cleaning and sterilizing medical equipment used in treatments.

Phototherapy treatments involve controlled exposure to light rays to address various skin conditions, requiring strict hygiene and sterilization protocols due to direct patient contact with the equipment. The Ministry emphasized that any breaches in these protocols necessitate an immediate halt to services to prevent potential health hazards.

According to the closure order, all medical activities and patient reception at the clinic have ceased as of the inspection date. The clinic will remain closed until all identified issues are fully and thoroughly rectified, subject to re-inspection and approval by Ministry representatives. The Ministry of Health stated, "The inspection revealed serious deficiencies that constitute an immediate danger to patient safety, including a significant shortage of medical personnel, improper operational procedures, and failures in cleaning and sterilization of equipment."