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A recent incident of violence at a Tamil Nadu government hospital underscores the growing threat of attacks on doctors in India, endangering healthcare workers and straining the medical system. Addressing this crisis requires a multifaceted solution with preventive and corrective measures to ensure the safety and well-being of healthcare providers while restoring trust in medical institutions.

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Reasons Behind Increasing Violence Against Doctors in India

• Unrealistic Expectations of patients: Unrealistic patient expectations regarding treatment outcomes lead to frustration and aggression when results fall short.
  For instance: A study by IMA found 75% of attacks on doctors occurred after perceived treatment failure, highlighting the link between expectations and violence.
• Overburdened Healthcare Infrastructure: Overcrowded hospitals and limited resources create delays, inciting helplessness and frustration among patients and families.
  For instance: In India, with a low doctor-patient ratio of 1:834, long waiting hours often lead to altercations.
• Communication Gaps: Lack of clear communication about diagnosis and outcomes can cause misunderstanding and mistrust.
  For example: The attack on an oncologist in Tamil Nadu in state-run Kalaignar Centenary Super Specialty Hospital (KCSSH), was reportedly due to misunderstanding of treatment complications.
• Emotional Stress: The emotional strain on patients and healthcare workers, especially during crises, can impact their mental health and escalate aggression in high-stress settings.
  For example: During the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors faced threats as families reacted emotionally to limited ICU beds and lack of resources.
• Lack of Security Measures: Many healthcare facilities lack adequate security to handle aggressive situations, leaving staff vulnerable.
  For example: In 2022, several hospitals reported assaults on staff due to inadequate security, prompting demands for police posts in hospitals.

Preventive Measures to Address Violence Against Doctors

• Implementing Security Protocols: Deploying trained security personnel and installing surveillance systems in hospitals to manage aggression.
  For example: AIIMS Delhi has initiated a security program with CCTV and security personnel, reducing incidents of violence.
• Enhanced Doctor-Patient Communication: Communication training for doctors can help manage patient expectations and reduce misunderstandings.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public on challenges faced by doctors and setting realistic expectations to reduce mistrust.
• Encouraging Patient-Counselor Interactions: Providing counsellors in hospitals for distressed families can help regulation of emotions and reduce confrontations.
  For instance: Trained counsellors can provide psychological support, mediate misunderstandings, and alleviate stress, reducing the likelihood of confrontations or violence against medical professionals.
• Limiting Visitor Access in Sensitive Areas: Visitor restrictions in ICUs and emergency wards help control crowds and reduce tensions in critical zones.
  For example: AIIMS enforced visitor restrictions during the pandemic, managing stress levels in hospitals effectively.

Corrective Measures to Address Violence Against Doctors

• Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Stricter penalties for violence against healthcare workers can deter aggressors.
  For example: The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Act, 2020 made violence against healthcare workers cognizable and non-bailable offence.
• Establishment of Fast-Track Courts: Setting up fast-track courts for cases of violence ensures timely justice.
• Ensuring Accountability for Hospital Security: Holding hospital administrations accountable for security lapses encourages prioritising safety measures.
• Financial and Emotional Support for Affected Doctors: Providing compensation and counselling for doctors affected by violence to address trauma and ensure well-being.
  For instance: Individual hospitals can initiate mental health support programs for doctors affected by workplace violence.
• Mandatory Reporting and Tracking Systems: A national tracking system for violence cases helps monitor incidents and formulate targeted policies.
  For instance: The Indian Medical Association’s registry for violence cases enables comprehensive tracking and better understanding of trends.

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The increasing violence against doctors in India demands a holistic solution involving preventive and corrective measures. A central law is required for holistic solution to this multifaceted issue of violence against healthcare professionals as highlighted by India Medical Association. A concerted effort by hospital administrations, government, and civil society is essential to uphold the safety and dignity of India’s healthcare professionals.

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