Impact of violence against medical professionals: An online survey of medical practitioners in India

Background There has been an increase in incidents of violence against doctors. We aimed to explore the perceived nature and causes of violence faced or witnessed by doctors and its perceived impact on them and on medical practice in India. Methods A semi-structured validated questionnaire comprising demographic and work-related details, particulars of incidents of violence, perceived reasons and impact of the incidents, was disseminated to doctors practising in India through various email and WhatsApp groups and messages. Participation was voluntary, and responses were anonymized. Results Of the 439 responses received, 80.2% reported having faced or witnessed workplace violence (WPV), of which verbal abuse was the most common, followed by physical and sexual violence. Mental health was affected by the incident, lasting for weeks to a year. Measures to prevent WPV and outcomes of reporting the incidents were inadequate. Mob mentality and unrealistic expectations of a good outcome were considered important contributory factors, and practical skill training of doctors and safety measures at the workplace were considered preventive factors. Conclusion WPV against medical professionals is a matter of concern. Measures at various levels can be introduced to prevent WPV, including an adequate system of reporting and measures to address them in real time, incorporation of various practical communication skills in the medical graduate curriculum, and rigorous implementation of the law.