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Public trust and advocacy

Public advocacy should not expose doctors to threats

An AMA viewpoint argues for collective protection of health professionals facing threats and harassment.

2022 leadership viewpoint · Threats and intimidation against health workers

AI-assisted summary of the attributed source. The original publisher retains authorship of its publication. Local discussion prompts are our suggestions.

What the source explains

The article discusses intimidation directed at doctors and health workers, including online harassment associated with public debate and advocacy. It calls for a safer environment and organisational action instead of expecting individuals simply to endure abuse. This is a leadership viewpoint in a US context, not a court decision. It supports a broad understanding of safety that extends beyond the consultation room.

Using this reading in your hospital

Agree a route for doctors to notify the institution about credible work-related threats. Preserve original material through appropriate private channels and appoint a spokesperson for public responses where needed. Avoid reposting threatening content in ways that amplify it or expose personal details.

A question for your team

Can a doctor obtain institutional help with an online threat without first making the incident public?

Original source

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Source documents, photographs and publisher websites remain in their original language. Directory names and addresses are retained as published.

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