Singapore Hospitals Strengthen Protections Against Violence Towards Healthcare Workers
Singapore General Hospital and other medical institutions are increasing measures to combat rising incidents of violence and harassment against healthcare staff. The number of reported cases has significantly increased in recent years.
Singapore's healthcare institutions are bolstering protections for staff amid a concerning rise in violent and harassing incidents. Statistics reveal a significant increase in such cases within public healthcare facilities over the past few years.
In 2018, public healthcare institutions recorded 1,080 incidents. The first eleven months of last year saw approximately 1,400 cases, surpassing the full-year total of 1,300 in 2020. While acknowledging the stress faced by patients and families, which can lead to negative behaviors, hospitals are emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards staff harassment and violence.
The Protection from Harassment Act of 2014 criminalizes harassment and verbal abuse. Penalties are heightened when these acts are directed at healthcare professionals performing their duties, with a maximum prison sentence of 12 months. The legislation has been expanded to include private sector workers involved in pandemic response, among others.
To safeguard staff, hospitals are implementing various mechanisms, including "panic buttons" for immediate security assistance and "Code of Conduct" agreements for problematic individuals. Some facilities are also providing psychological support and training to equip staff with self-protection skills and ensure mental well-being. The judicial system is expediting protection order applications to ensure timely support.
Institutions stress that with mutual respect and cooperation, healthcare workers can focus on patient care. They encourage patients and families with grievances to utilize formal channels for resolution.