In the times of Pandemic, the role of healthcare staff is utmost in ensuring the survival of the masses. Despite that, violence against the healthcare staff is frequently reported in the media. More often than not in India, the relatives of the patients are the ones committing the violence on the doctors. The reason for the same are multifaceted, that includes lack of grievance redressal system in hospitals, long legal procedures, anxiety, et al. The doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers who themselves are acting in forefront to save lives are now demanding security by the state governments. This act of violence is now becoming a barrier in delivery of medical care. It is high time that steps are taken to ensure the security of the healthcare workers. This article aims to provide solutions on the part of the society and government to mitigate the violence against healthcare workers.

Today, India is battling a Pandemic. In this situation, if there is anyone who has managed the situation, it is the healthcare workers. It seems that the frontline workers, who are literally risking their lives, just to save ours, are not being rewarded properly. There are innumerable cases, but only a few, actually gain the light of social media importance. The worst part is that, these instances of violence are not happening in dark or in a corner of a city, but in the broad day light. According to the data by Indian Medical Association, at least 594 Doctors have lost their lives in the Second wave of the pandemic and at least 1300 Doctors have died since the last year. Ward Boys, Nurses, Doctors, etc, are risking their lives for us and now they even have to worry about their security. Situation is so grave, that doctors are now writing to the state government, begging for their protection.

Reports also claim that 80% of doctors in India are stressed in their profession and about 75% of doctors have dealt with violence at some point of their careers. As many as around 63% doctors are unable to see their patients without the fear of violence and around 57% doctors have thought of hiring a security guard. The situation is becoming worst with increasing cases of Covid-19 and it is high time that we begin to find solutions to mitigate violence against the healthcare staff.

The responsibility of the patients and their families is utmost in prevention of these violence. In civilized societies, violence is no remedy. We have dedicated avenues of dispute redressal to address the concerns of the patients and their families. No medicine is guarantees 100% results and despite Doctor’s full attention there might be chances that the patient does not survive. The families of the patients need to understand the value of doctors and their dedication to the field.  In case the patient of family of the patient feels that there is negligence on the part of the Doctor, or hospital, or any healthcare staff then they can approach the Consumer Redressal Court. Consumer courts are dedicated forums for dealing with cases related to consumer disputes and grievances.

It ensures that service providers maintain fair practice in dealing with the consumers. The patient or their families, whoever is approaching the forum should carry all the relevant bills and documents for filing the case. It should be ensured by the hospital authorities that there is continuous communication between the doctor and the family. Filling in crucial gaps in communication between the Doctor, patient and relatives would substantially help in mitigating violence towards the healthcare staff. The role of media here is also very fundamental. Print and electronic media channels often sensationalize the effects of medicines which raise the hope and expectation of patients from the Doctors. Media channels should function responsibly in reporting the effects of any medication.

Aishwarya Says:

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