Hospital violence is a daily reality doctors say can’t be ignored
Violence inside hospitals is becoming a growing concern across Ontario, according to the Ontario Medical Association.
Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital Emergency physician Dr. Allan Drummond says attacks and threats against health-care workers are more common than many people realize, especially in emergency departments where tensions can run high.
Drummond says staff often feel incidents are underreported or accepted as part of the job, which makes it harder to address the problem.
He warns that no facility is immune and action often comes only after someone is hurt.
Drummond is calling for stronger safety measures and coordinated strategies to better protect front-line workers.
Health advocates say addressing violence is key to keeping hospitals safe for both staff and patients.
