Just six months into the fiscal rehabilitation plan, doctors at Hadassah Hospitals have declared a ‘work dispute’, clearing the way for a strike in two weeks. The work sanctions declaration is approved by the Israel Medical Association (IMA) and the doctors’ union at Hadassah.

One of the issues at hand is Hadassah’s refusal to commit to fully backing doctors who face negligence lawsuits including legal representation. The sides have also reached a dead end regarding efforts to sign a collective agreement.

Head of the IMA Dr. Leonid Edelman insists physicians are doing their utmost to resolve differences and assist the medical organization in its fiscal recovery plan. He accuses the directors at Hadassah of “foot dragging” and failing to show professionalism in talks towards settling issues. He warns if the hospital does not respond appropriately the doctors will be compelled to strike.

Hadassah officials insist doctors have malpractice insurance for any services they perform in the hospitals. The fiscal rehab program also includes placing funds in escrow in the event the medical organization cannot pay out a claim and these funds are being held in a special account as required. Officials add that Hadassah officials and the board of directors and the State of Israel stand behind this. Officials report significant progress has been made in talks, contradicting statements by Dr. Edelman.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)