IMA observes “National Solidarity Day” in light of the increasing violence against doctors

IMA observes “National Solidarity Day” in light of the increasing violence against doctors New Delhi, Jan 17, 2017: The concept of observing National Solidarity Day is a reminder of fundamental unity, a foundation that is also integral to the medical profession. IMA observed National solidarity day today in protest against the increasing cases of assault on medical professionals especially the recent assaults in Allahabad Karnataka, Pune and Haryana. IMA stands united for this cause, and all members were requested to wear black badges in protest all over the country. Padma Shri Awardee Dr K.K Aggarwal, National President Indian Medical Association (IMA) and President Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI) and Dr RN Tandon – Honorary Secretary General IMA in a joint statement said that “IMA is for promoting a secure environment to healthcare professionals to practice their work. The increasing violence against doctors is a matter of grave concern, and we must restore the nobility of the profession. Failure of treatment does not mean negligence for no matter what you do, 5% of the seriously ill patients will die. If every death were to end up in violence with no protection from the Indian judicial system or the law enforcement agencies, it would only deter doctors from practising and fulfilling their basic duties. A survey was recently conducted by IMA documenting the concerns of consultant specialist doctors regarding increasing incidences of violence and aggressive behaviour aimed at them. Unfortunate results of the study suggest that about 80% of doctors have had faced some degree of violence or aggression from patients and their relatives during their practice. “Those who work in volatile settings like ICUs and emergency units are more prone to cases of violence which, can sometimes border on verbal abuse and physical assault. The current situation is completely unacceptable on all grounds and warrants that strict action must be taken in this regard. There is an urgent need of boosting security measures at hospital premises and the enforcement of a Central Protection Act for doctors. IMA has been demanding removing doctors from the Consumer Protection Act since the past two years as well as the capping on compensation that is awarded for medical negligence cases. The government must act swiftly for the medical community is more at threat than ever before,” added Dr Aggarwal. Following highlights marked the National Solidarity Day observed by IMA members: • All IMA leaders across its 30 State branches wore black badges to mark their protest. All 2.7 lakh IMA members were requested to do so too • IMA ensured that no medical services were affected due to this protest • Members were encouraged to book the perpetrators of violence in accordance with the law at the earliest. • A white paper on the safety of medical practitioners was released • Two minutes silence was observed at the National IMA headquarters for those who have been victims of violence cases