In a recent government meeting, officials addressed the alarming rise in firearm and workplace violence, particularly in the wake of tragic incidents involving individuals seeking help from emergency services. Notably, the meeting highlighted the case of Sonia Massey, who was shot and killed by police after calling 911 for assistance. This incident, along with similar cases involving Greg Small Jr. and Earl Moore Jr. over the past three years in Springfield, underscores a troubling pattern of violence linked to emergency responses.

Dr. Vidya Prakash, Chief Medical Officer of SIU Medicine, presented the findings of the SIU School of Medicine's Firearm and Workplace Violence work group, which aims to tackle these issues through data-driven solutions. Dr. Prakash reported a steady increase in workplace violence incidents over the last five years, primarily characterized by verbal aggression and threats, but also including physical assaults on healthcare workers.

In response to these challenges, the work group has implemented several initiatives, including safety messaging across clinical areas to assure staff of their protection and a commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for aggression. Additionally, a new patient preference policy was introduced to prevent discrimination against healthcare providers based on race, ethnicity, or gender.

The meeting also emphasized the importance of preparedness for active shooter situations. Chief Ben Newman of the UCA Security and Police provided training for staff on how to respond to potential threats, including de-escalation techniques for handling aggressive patients. A tabletop exercise was conducted to evaluate the organization’s readiness for such emergencies.

Furthermore, the work group has engaged in statewide and national discussions on gun violence as a public health issue, collaborating with community leaders to develop strategies aimed at mitigating gun violence. The meeting concluded with a call for continued efforts to protect both healthcare professionals and patients, reinforcing the need for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of violence in society.