Member Services
- Text Decrease
- Text Increase
- Print Page
Stronger penalties needed for Victorian healthcare worker assaults
2 October 2007
AMA Victoria is calling on the government to match South Australia’s proposal to introduce double penalties for assaulting health and emergency workers.
Under the South Australian proposal, assaults on health and emergency room workers will become an aggravated offence and will carry larger fines and longer jail sentences, similar to penalties for assaulting police officers.
AMA Victoria Vice President and Emergency Physician, Dr Stephen Parnis, says threats and assaults against hospital emergency staff are a worryingly common occurrence.
“People who visit emergency departments can be at their worst; we are dealing with people who are in a lot of pain, and they may be emotional and unpredictable, particularly if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
“The fact that many public hospital emergency departments are experiencing problems with lack of staff and resources means healthcare workers have diminished ability to cope with violent or aggressive patients.
“This proposal sends a clear message to society that violence against ambulance workers, nurses, hospital staff and doctors will not be tolerated.”
Victorian Medical Directory
Quick Reference Links
Networks
Preferred Providers
Next
Prev