The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has released a list of recommendations to improve the safety of healthcare settings. Key recommendations include:
- Strengthening security protocol. This involves reevaluating security levels at facilities, equipping staff with tools to report suspicious behavior, and working closely with local law enforcement to strengthen protocol.
- Enhancing Emergency Preparedness. This includes providing staff with training in de-escalation and self-defense, reviewing and updating emergency response plans, and informing staff about who to contact in case of an emergency.
- Supporting Workforce Mental Health and Retention. It is important for hospitals and health systems to offer support services for staff who have been affected by workplace violence and foster a workplace culture that encourages reporting suspicious behavior without fear of retaliation.
- Promoting Information Sharing. Employees should be empowered to share validated threat information with the appropriate stakeholders, monitor updates through official sources, and track threats via social media, major outlets, and law enforcement.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that nearly 75% of the roughly 25,000 workplace assaults reported annually happen in healthcare settings. As healthcare violence has continued to climb since the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts to enhance workplace and patient safety are more important than ever.
Fortunately, Congress has taken notice of this crisis and is working to address it. The bipartisan Save Healthcare Workers Act (S. 1600/H.R. 3178) would establish federal criminal penalties and fines for persons convicted of assaulting hospital personnel. If passed, this would be the first federal law protecting hospital employees. By creating stronger penalties, this legislation would deter and prevent violence against hospital employees. In addition, the bill would strengthen the capacity of hospitals to enhance security systems and more effectively coordinate with law enforcement by establishing a grant program.
To read ASPR’s recommendations, CLICK HERE.
To read more about the Save Healthcare Workers Act, CLICK HERE.