National Day of Education and Prevention Against Violence Towards Healthcare Workers
Four years after being hailed as heroes during the peak of the pandemic, healthcare workers in Bergamo and Italy are now facing a disturbing trend of violence directed towards them. Today, on March 12th, the National Day of Education and Prevention Against Violence Towards Healthcare Workers is being observed. This day was established in 2022 to address the concerning rise in attacks against those working in the healthcare sector.
According to reports from the Asst «Papa Giovanni», there were a total of 109 attacks in 2022 and 103 attacks in 2023 against healthcare workers. These attacks, both physical and verbal, have resulted in injuries and lost working days for the staff. The data shows that attacks have been stable over the past two years, with certain departments like emergency rooms, psychiatry, and administrative areas being more at risk.
The Asst Bergamo Est, which has more facilities and emergency rooms, reported 80 attacks in 2022, which increased to 165 attacks in 2023. This alarming trend poses a threat not only to the well-being of healthcare workers but also to the safety of patients and the proper functioning of healthcare services.
The company emphasizes the need to create a climate of respect, understanding, and support towards healthcare workers in order to ensure a safe working environment. It is crucial to address this issue globally and take measures at European, national, and regional levels to combat this escalating trend of violence against healthcare workers.