Investigation Uncovers False Training Records in Kaplan Medical Center Cardiology Residency

An investigation into the cardiology residency program at Kaplan Medical Center has revealed serious irregularities, including suspicions of falsified training records. The probe was initiated following a complaint by a resident doctor about the combined cardiology and internal medicine training track. A committee appointed by the Scientific Council of the Israeli Medical Association found that residents in this program allegedly did not complete required training components, despite documentation indicating otherwise. The findings described the issue as "persistent false registration" and criticized the management and training methods at Kaplan.

The Scientific Council recommended revoking the accreditation of Kaplan's cardiology department for residency training as long as Prof. Kobi George remains head of the department. It also suggested barring him from managing any accredited training department in the future. Furthermore, the council advised a case-by-case review of doctors who completed the combined program to verify if they met all training requirements and to determine if additional training is necessary.

In response to the severity of the findings, the Israeli Ministry of Health announced it would conduct an independent investigation beyond the internal review by Clalit Health Services, which operates Kaplan. The ministry emphasized that the final decision on departmental accreditation lies with the Director-General of Health. A high-level meeting involving senior health officials, including Kaplan's management and heads of relevant departments, is scheduled for next week to discuss the issue and decide on further actions.

Prof. Kobi George rejected the allegations, asserting that all residents and specialists completed the required clinical, theoretical, and research training. He also criticized the Scientific Council's recommendations as fundamentally flawed and the process as improper. Meanwhile, Clalit has established an expert committee to examine the claims and address them.

A key unresolved question concerns the status of doctors who have already completed the residency during the period of alleged deficiencies. There is currently no decision to revoke any specialist certifications, but individual assessments may be conducted to determine if additional training is needed. The Ministry of Health's forthcoming investigation and discussions will be crucial in determining accountability and the future of the cardiology training program at Kaplan.