• Another attack on medical staff lands a specialist in ICU

The Association of Medical Specialists (AMS) has urged the Government to officially declare and enforce a zero-tolerance policy against violence and abuse targeting staff and patients within State hospitals.

The call comes after several incidents of harassment of hospital staff, including medical officers, and patients within hospital premises. The latest of these incidents is the physical attack on a Specialist Oral and Maxillofacial (OMF) Surgeon at the District General Hospital (DGH) in Kegalle.

In a statement issued, the AMS stated that the public must be encouraged to follow formal complaint procedures in cases of grievances, ensuring that their concerns are addressed through fair and transparent investigations. It added that the authorities have a duty to uphold justice while safeguarding both healthcare workers and patients.

 "We urge the Government to officially declare and enforce a zero-tolerance policy on violence and abuse in State hospitals even by making necessary amendments to existing legislation. This measure is essential to protect healthcare workers, ensure their safety, and maintain uninterrupted healthcare services for the public."

Signed by AMS President Dr. S.N. Yasawardene and Secretary Dr. R. Gnanasekeram, the statement further read that acts of violence or abuse against healthcare workers not only endanger their safety and wellbeing but also severely compromise patient care and sustaining quality free health services, creating a situation of double jeopardy.

Meanwhile, the suspect who assaulted the OMF Surgeon has been arrested by the Police. The assault is said to have occurred during the afternoon hours of 28 March over a personal dispute. The 29-year-old suspect, a resident of Kandy, had attacked the specialist doctor in front of the hospital. The injured specialist is currently receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Kegalle DGH. The suspect has been remanded until 4 April after being produced before the Kegalle Magistrate’s Court.

Attempts to contact the Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni, the Health Ministry's Secretary, Dr. Anil Jasinghe, and the Government Medical Officers' Association proved futile. Dr. Wijemuni, on an earlier occasion, said that they were working to improve safety within hospital premises while also recognising the need for some flexibility in entry, as people may require immediate access to hospitals in genuine emergencies.