In response to the alarming rise in violence against healthcare workers in government hospitals, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued an office memorandum outlining strict measures to prevent and address such incidents. The Office Memorandum (OM) was issued on August 16, 2024.
This OM is addressed to the following stakeholders:
- Director/Medical Superintendent of Central Govt. Hospital/Institutes
- Director All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi
- All other AIIMS
- Directors/Principals, All Medical Colleges
The memorandum highlights the disturbing trend of physical and verbal aggression faced by healthcare staff while on duty. Many incidents involve patients or their attendants, who have resorted to violence or threats.
To ensure accountability and deter future violence, the memorandum mandates that heads of institutions must file an Institutional FIR within six hours of any incident of violence against a healthcare worker. This prompt action will help in initiating legal proceedings and sending a strong message against such behavior.
