Ensuring the Safety of Healthcare Professionals: A Review of Current Challenges and Legal Frameworks in India

• Anmol Mahani,*  
• Rudranath Zadu

Abstract

Introduction: Healthcare professionals, particularly doctors, face significant safety challenges in India. Workplace violence, harassment, inadequate infrastructure, and the absence of appropriate legal protections worsen their vulnerability, especially during night shifts. Recent incidents of violence have drawn attention to the urgent need for reforms to ensure their safety. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to identify the current safety concerns of healthcare workers, particularly doctors, in India and evaluate the effectiveness of existing legal frameworks. The goal is to propose practical steps for enhancing safety and ensuring a secure work environment for doctors. Materials and Methods: The study includes data from various surveys and legal reports on workplace safety for healthcare workers in India. It further incorporates statistical analysis, qualitative feedback from doctors, and reviews of current legal frameworks relevant to medical practice. Results: Doctors, particularly women and junior staff, report feeling unsafe, with over 35% stating that they feel insecure during night shifts. The absence of proper duty rooms, lack of bathroom facilities, inadequate lighting, and insufficient security staff are key factors influencing their perceptions of safety. Legal protections such as the Central Protection Act (CPA) remain under-enforced. Discussion: The discussion revolves around the need for urgent safety reforms, with a focus on strengthening the implementation of protective laws and enhancing hospital infrastructure. The study also suggests steps to prevent violence and harassment, while promoting better training for healthcare professionals in handling emergencies and demanding situations. Conclusion: Enhancing the safety of healthcare professionals is critical for improving healthcare outcomes. Hospitals must prioritise the establishment of secure environments, enforce legal protections, and foster a supportive culture that mitigates the risks of workplace violence.

Keywords

Workplace safety, doctors, healthcare violence, legal frameworks, Indian medical laws, occupational safety, harassment, and protective measures.