Health care workers are pillars of every Maryland community, but some face violence on the job. Respecting and protecting them isn’t just right; it’s essential for a strong local care system.
As reported by Maryland Matters, health care in Maryland is grounded in trust between patients, providers, and the communities they serve. Every day, health care workers show up with dedication and compassion to care for others. But behind the scenes, a troubling trend is growing: workplace violence targeting those very caregivers.
From emergency rooms to long-term care facilities, nurses, doctors, and support staff face verbal and physical abuse at alarming rates. These acts threaten the stability of our health care system and the safety of those we rely on to keep us healthy.
The Maryland Patient Safety Center has launched a statewide initiative: Care Flows Both Ways. With support from the Maryland General Assembly, the campaign aims to promote a culture of respect and safety in all health care settings.
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When we support the well-being of our health care workforce, we reinforce the entire system of care that touches every Marylander’s life. Respecting and safeguarding those who care for us ensures they can continue to do what they do best — deliver exceptional care to patients and families across the state.
Our campaign website, ItTakesPatients.org, provides tools and resources for patients and families, plus hospitals, physician offices, urgent care and other settings of care. Through the website, as well as on billboards and buses, TV and digital ads, Marylanders can hear and see directly from health care workers who have been impacted by workplace violence in medical settings.
Ensuring safe working conditions not only protects the workforce but also strengthens the delivery of care across every Maryland county. Supporting health care workers is a public health investment that benefits all residents. As previously reported by MACo, some counties already provide resources to support caregivers. The Baltimore County Department of Aging announced a new resource for Baltimore County caregivers caring for a loved one at home. Trualta, an e-learning platform that provides education, peer support, and coaching for caregivers, is now offered free through the Baltimore County Caregiver Support Program.
Similarly, Queen Anne’s County Department of Community Services Area Agency on Aging recently held a Caregiver’s Conference, which offered caregivers practical support, connection, and valuable resources.
A safe, respected workforce is essential to maintaining a strong, responsive health care system.
