Why Medical Professionals Prefer Calling the Police Over Other Resources

Healthcare providers often find themselves in challenging situations when dealing with difficult patients. The tendency to report these incidents to the police may stem from a variety of factors, including misperceptions about available resources and the legal consequences of healthcare violence. Understanding these dynamics can help improve patient care and safety.

Misperceptions and Legal Consequences

Contrary to common belief, not all healthcare professionals choose to call the police when dealing with problematic patients. This article aims to shed light on why some may opt for a police response while highlighting the importance of exploring other options.

One recurring misconception is that medical professionals are solely there to treat patients, not to deal with difficult behavior. A patient’s hostile actions can disrupt the environment and put both medical staff and other patients at risk. However, it is important to recognize that medical professionals undergo extensive training in de-escalation techniques and often exhaust internal resources before involving law enforcement.

Autistic and Schizoaffective Patient Experiences

A patient with co-occurring autism and schizoaffective disorder may be more susceptible to challenging behaviors. These conditions can lead to rapid and intense changes in mood or anxious outbursts that may be distressing for healthcare providers. Some patients, due to their condition, may lash out as a form of communication, which can be misinterpreted as hostility. It is reassuring that in many cases, healthcare providers have not resorted to police involvement and have instead provided support to the patient and their family.

The Legal Context of Healthcare Violence

Beyond patient behavior, the legal landscape has shifted to address escalating incidents of violence against healthcare workers. In many regions, abusive or violent behavior against healthcare personnel is now considered a felony. This change in the law underscores the need for medical staff to feel protected and respected in their workplace. However, the widespread assumption that all medical professionals strictly adhere to this policy is not always accurate.

Diversity in Police Involvement and Hospital Policies

Medical professionals vary in their practices regarding police involvement. For instance, some may have never called the police about a patient, whereas others have been forced to due to severe incidents of aggression or assault. In many hospitals, security departments handle incidents, providing a first response before contacting law enforcement. Emergency departments, in particular, often see a high volume of volatile situations, primarily due to substance misuse and emotional distress. Some hospitals even have their own mini precincts for handling such incidents.

It is essential to recognize that police involvement should be a last resort. The primary responsibility of healthcare providers is patient care, and their interactions with law enforcement should focus on ensuring safety and justice, not creating unnecessary legal complications for patients or themselves.

Conclusion

The decision to involve law enforcement in healthcare settings is a complex one that involves balancing patient care, legal obligations, and safety concerns. While there may be a perception that police are always called as a first resort, this is not universally true. Efforts to improve communication, training, and the availability of alternative de-escalation strategies can help foster a more harmonious and productive medical environment for all.