Dutch nurse Suspended After Allegedly refusing Care Based on Patient’s Palestinian Support Pin
ROTTERDAM, Netherlands – A Dutch nurse has been suspended from her position at the Ikazia Hospital in rotterdam following allegations she refused to provide care to a Jewish patient due to the patient wearing a pin supporting Palestine. The incident, reported to the hospital on October 26, 2023, has sparked outrage and prompted an internal investigation.
The case underscores growing concerns about antisemitism and discrimination within healthcare settings, particularly amid heightened tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict. The alleged refusal of care raises serious ethical and legal questions about a healthcare professional’s duty to provide impartial treatment, regardless of a patient’s political beliefs or background. The hospital has stated it is indeed taking the accusations extremely seriously and is cooperating fully with authorities.
According to reports, the patient, whose name has not been released, required routine post-operative care. The nurse reportedly questioned the patient about the Palestinian flag pin she was wearing and then allegedly stated she would not treat her because of it. The patient later reported the incident to hospital governance.
“We are shocked and deeply concerned by this report,” said a statement released by Ikazia Hospital. “Discrimination of any kind is unacceptable and goes against everything we stand for as an organization. We are committed to providing care to all patients, regardless of their background or beliefs.”
The nurse has been suspended pending the outcome of the investigation, which will include interviews with both the patient and the nurse, as well as a review of hospital records. The hospital has also notified relevant regulatory bodies.
The incident comes as reports of antisemitic incidents have surged globally since the start of the recent conflict. Experts warn that such incidents can have a chilling effect on Jewish communities and erode trust in public institutions. The outcome of the Ikazia hospital investigation is expected to set a precedent for addressing similar allegations in the future.
