CDC: Harassment of health workers more than doubled
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Health care workers' reports of harassment on the job more than doubled in 2022 compared to before the pandemic, a new federal report found.
The big picture: Health care organizations should take immediate steps to protect their workers' mental health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials said Tuesday.
By the numbers: More than 13% of health care workers last year reported harassment, such as threats or verbal abuse. That's compared to just over 6% in 2018, according to the CDC.
- Health care workers reporting harassment had increased odds of anxiety, depression and burnout compared to their colleagues.
- About 44% of health care workers wanted to look for a new job last year, while interest declined among workers outside of health care.
- Health care workers' trust in their management declined 7% from 2018 to 2022.
Remember: Hospitals and health clinics are among the most dangerous workplaces in the country.
What they're saying: Instead of putting the onus on health care workers to improve their mental well-being, CDC said employers can improve the work environment.
- Reducing workloads, improving security to help protect against violent threats, and allowing workers to participate in decision-making were among the measures CDC recommended.
- "By improving work conditions and work design we can have a positive impact on health worker well-being and mental health, and retain a critical asset to the nation's health system," Debra Houry, CDC chief medical officer, said.
