297 words / 1 min read

We were deeply distressed to hear about sexual assaults reported in and around Health Sciences Centre last week and are continuing to push for greater safety measures, timely communication and broader supports at all facilities in Manitoba where staff, provider and patient safety have been of concern. 

We amplified this message by speaking with the Free Press expressing physician concerns about safety and the importance of prompt communication. 

Patients and health professionals deserve to be safe, and more must be done to support safety and security in and around HSC. In our annual physician survey, we found about a quarter of physicians at HSC reported experiencing one or more physical safety incidents in the previous year. This includes incidents while delivering patient care, as well as other times entering, exiting or being in a health facility. 

On Wednesday afternoon, an internal staff memo at HSC expressed thanks to those who had shared their concerns about the assaults and were told their feedback is directly shaping the steps taken to strengthen the safety. Leaders noted they are working to ensure real-time alerts are available for internal security threats and that reviews are underway for a number of other improvements. While those who received the notice appreciated the communication, many physicians reported not receiving it at all. You can access a copy here.

We are here for you

• Our Doc360 health and wellness resources can be accessed by physicians, medical learners, and their families anytime. Visit Doc360​.ca for more information. You can also use our intake line anytime at 204−237−8320, toll free at 1 – 844-433-DRMB (1−844−433−3762) or complete the online intake form.

• As we continue our conversations with the Manitoba government and health facility leaders, if you feel comfortable sharing, we invite you write to us, in confidence, at practiceadvice@​doctorsmanitoba.​ca.