The Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners (BAMP) has called for a review of security at public health facilities and a national campaign on civil behaviour, following recent assaults on nurses.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the association described the incidents as “deplorable” and said those responsible must be held accountable to the full extent of the law.
It noted that while healthcare workers are expected to maintain high standards of professionalism, patients and the wider public must also demonstrate respect and civility when accessing care.
“Just as health care workers must be held to high standards of professionalism in performance of our duties, civility is expected (indeed demanded) from the public,” the statement said.
BAMP stressed that workplace safety is a basic right of all healthcare professionals and warned that violent acts and inappropriate behaviour in healthcare settings have become increasingly common and must not be tolerated.
The organisation is urging the Ministry of Health and Wellness to strengthen security services in clinics and hospitals and to implement a public awareness campaign outlining behavioural expectations and the consequences of violence against medical staff.It also expressed solidarity with the Barbados Nurses Association, stating that it fully supports efforts to improve safety and working conditions for all frontline healthcare workers. (SM)
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