Increasing Violence Against Medical Professionals
Violence against medical professionals is increasing, with incidents occurring more frequently in recent times.
A chilling case involved Dr. Balaji Jegannathan, an oncologist, who was stabbed by a patient’s relative in a Tamil Nadu hospital.
The attacker, was upset about his mother's treatment for cancer and blamed the doctor for her health issues.
The attacker brought a knife to the hospital, showing the attack was premeditated, not an impulsive outburst.
The attack is a stark reminder of the risks faced by healthcare professionals, particularly in emotionally charged situations involving patients’ lives.
Need for a Safe Working Environment for Medical Professionals
Violence against healthcare professionals is as unacceptable as negligence on their part.
Stress and fear of health outcomes should not justify attacking those providing care.
Medical professionals must communicate well with patients and families, explaining possible treatment outcomes, but this should not lead to aggression if the results are unfavorable.
Healthcare institutions need strong deterrents to protect doctors, such as: Baggage scanners, CCTV monitoring, Security personnel on-site
The memory of past incidents, like the rape and murder of a young doctor in Kolkata, has increased unrest among medical professionals.
A safe working environment is essential for doctors to work without fear of violence, ensuring both patient care & safety of healthcare workers
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