Rambam Medical Staff Defend Care for Wounded Soldier Amid Controversy

A medical staff member at Rambam Hospital responded to allegations of improper treatment of a wounded IDF soldier, asserting that all patients receive care regardless of ethnicity or race. The staff member described a confrontation with the soldier's family, which began when the soldier's sister loudly questioned the care provided, claiming her brother was denied water. The staff member clarified that the soldier had been treated, given food and drink, and that the issue was quickly resolved after speaking with the soldier, who expressed gratitude for the care. A relative later apologized for the sister's behavior.

The staff member noted that many on the medical team are Arab and that they communicate in Arabic among themselves about personal matters, emphasizing that this does not affect their professional dedication. Due to the sensitivity of the situation, staff were asked to avoid speaking Arabic near soldiers to prevent distress. The controversy has created fear among the medical team, with one staff member saying he no longer feels safe coming to work.

The dispute escalated after the soldier's family accused the hospital staff of neglect, including claims that family members were locked out of the ward and that the soldier was left unattended. Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered a swift investigation into the claims. Rambam Hospital officials stated that all patients, including soldiers, receive high-quality care and that the allegations are being thoroughly examined.

Dr. Nitzan Shmueli, a specialist at Rambam, highlighted the professionalism and compassion of the mixed medical team treating soldiers and other patients. Meanwhile, the Hadash party in Haifa announced a support rally for Rambam's medical staff, distributing flowers in appreciation of their work. The soldier's brother maintained his accusations, stating the family was denied access during the night and that the soldier was treated aggressively when requesting water or to change position.