“Physical violence, intimidation, and threats are not accepted in any other workplace, and they should not be allowed or tolerated in a health care setting,” said Ohio Past President Nicole Veitinger, DO, FACEP.

Additional comments from RJ Sontag, MD, FACEP, emphasized that emergency physicians must be able to concentrate on treating patients, without fearing for their personal safety.

“Emergency physicians and their care teams deserve a support system that prevents these incidents and protects us when they occur,” said Dr. Sontag. “We need to bring awareness about these incidents to slow down the acceleration of violence in health care. Emergency departments should be a safe space where patients are guaranteed they have the full attention and dedication of their care team to treat their ailments.”

What’s the latest in your state? Check out ACEP’s State Legislative Dashboard here.

In Other News…

• Join ACEP Council Speaker Melissa W. Costello, MD, FACEP, and ACEP Council Vice Speaker Michael J. McCrea, MD, FACEP, next week to learn about how the ACEP Council works and how even a single member can make a big impact on the policy and direction of the College. The ACEP Council is a deliberative body that meets once a year for two days in conjunction with the College’s annual Scientific Assembly. The Council votes on resolutions that guide the activities of the College. Learn how to craft your resolution and weigh in on the pressing issues in emergency medicine. This free virtual event is set for 2 p.m. (CST) on Thursday, April 10.
• There’s still time to register for ACEP’s Leadership and Advocacy Conference. Both chambers are expected to be in session April 27-29 when ACEP members and volunteers learn crucial leadership skills and advocate for the specialty. Don’t miss your chance to make a positive impact on your practice and your patients.