During the first three years of the COVID-19 pandemic, over 255 healthcare workers were attacked, 18 were killed, 147 were injured, and more than 80 healthcare facilities were severely damaged. These attacks stemmed from various factors, including disgruntled patients and their families, conflicts related to vaccinations, and relevant past patient history.
A recent study conducted at the University of Minnesota was conducted to analyze the attacks on healthcare workers and the impact on the effectiveness of public health policies. “Attacks against healthcare can severely hamper the public health response during a pandemic,” stated the authors of the study. The findings of this study emphasize the importance of public education campaigns, improved coordination between healthcare organizations and law enforcement, and the possible need to bolster the security of medical facilities and health workers.” Researchers are currently calling on legislative officials and policymakers to implement protective measures and policies aiming to protect healthcare workers and first responders.
Findings from the study illustrate the severity of attacks on healthcare workers, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. For future health crises, researchers emphasize the need to implement protective measures alongside restrictions to better protect and assist healthcare workers as they are consistently serving populations from the frontlines. With increased security measures, healthcare workers can focus on providing care rather than worrying about their own safety. Healthcare workers are calling on policymakers to put their safety first.
By Justin Goldberg