Cleaning Staff Shortage Threatens Infection Control in Israeli Healthcare Facilities
Israel's healthcare system is facing a critical challenge as a shortage of approximately 45,000 cleaning workers threatens the ability of hospitals, nursing homes, and medical institutions to maintain necessary hygiene standards. The Cleaning Companies Organization warned the Ministry of Health that this deficit, combined with an aging workforce where 42% of cleaning staff are over 56 years old, could increase the risk of hospital-acquired infections among patients.
Recent Ministry of Health data revealed that around 1,100 patients were diagnosed with hospital-acquired infections last year. The organization emphasized that consistent professional cleaning is essential to prevent infections and protect patient safety. According to a national infection prevention report, an estimated 1,319 deaths and 4,668 cases of resistant bacterial infections were avoided in 2025 due to effective hygiene measures, which require ongoing investment in cleaning personnel.
Avi Mizrahi, chairman of the Cleaning Companies Organization, highlighted the direct impact of cleanliness on patient health, stating that "cleaning in nursing homes, hospitals, and similar institutions is critical to preventing diseases, infections, and bacteria." He stressed that cleanliness goes beyond appearances, involving thorough sanitation of beds, rooms, and surfaces that come into contact with patients.
Despite advances in cleaning technology and robotics, Mizrahi noted that human workers remain indispensable. The recent approval to employ foreign workers has partially alleviated the shortage, with some improvements already visible in hospitals. However, wages remain low, with a base hourly rate of 39.11 shekels gross, resulting in many workers earning about 6,000 shekels net monthly, which is insufficient to attract new employees.
The Cleaning Companies Organization is urging the government to develop a national plan to address the workforce shortage, including expanding foreign worker employment. They warn that without a fundamental solution, maintaining the required cleanliness and safety standards in healthcare facilities will be difficult, endangering patient health.
