Laws are not enough when safety norms in hospitals are low: SC

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4)

 Doctors face several critical issues in their work environments, as observed by the Supreme Court:

• Inadequate Resting Facilities: Many hospitals lack proper resting areas for medical professionals, forcing them to rest in patient rooms or public spaces.
• Insufficient Duty Rooms: A shortage of separate duty rooms for male and female doctors is common.
• Lack of Basic Amenities: Interns, residents, and senior residents often do not have access to essential sanitation, nutrition, and hygiene facilities.
• Fear of Retribution: Concerns about retaliation discourage healthcare professionals from addressing deficiencies in their work environment.
• Security Deficiencies: Hospitals often have inadequate security measures, leaving staff vulnerable to aggression from patients and their attendants.
• Unrestricted Access: Patients and their families often have unrestricted access to sensitive areas, such as Intensive Care Units and doctors’ rest areas, increasing the risk of confrontation.

To address the issues faced by doctors and improve their working conditions, the following measures can be considered:

• Enhance Safety Standards: Implement comprehensive safety protocols in hospitals, including secure access to sensitive areas and increased security personnel to protect medical staff from violence.
• Upgrade Facilities: Invest in adequate resting rooms and duty facilities for medical professionals, ensuring separate areas for male and female staff and access to essential amenities like sanitation and nutrition.
• Improve Legislation: Strengthen existing laws to not only provide harsher penalties for violence but also address systemic issues, such as hospital infrastructure and staff well-being.
• Promote Reporting and Support Systems: Establish confidential channels for healthcare professionals to report safety concerns or workplace issues without fear of retaliation.
• Increase Awareness and Training: Educate hospital staff and patients about the importance of a safe working environment and the rights of medical professionals.
• Regular Audits and Assessments: Conduct frequent evaluations of hospital safety and facilities to ensure compliance with safety standards and identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

• Addressing the systemic issues faced by medical professionals requires a multifaceted approach.
• Enhancing safety standards, upgrading facilities, and improving legislation are crucial steps.
• By implementing these measures, we can ensure a safer and more supportive environment for medical professionals, ultimately improving healthcare delivery and reducing workplace violence.