The Committee on Health in the District of Columbia held a budget oversight hearing on May 30, 2025, where significant concerns regarding staff safety in healthcare facilities were raised. Chairperson Christina Henderson led the discussions, which highlighted ongoing issues related to assaults on healthcare workers.
During the meeting, a representative expressed frustration over the lack of support from management in addressing the alarming rate of assaults on staff. They noted that since 2015, incidents of violence have persisted, with a reported 446 assaults occurring in the facility from March 2024 to March 2025. This included 32 assaults specifically targeting staff members during the same period.
The representative emphasized the urgent need for management to take action, as the safety of healthcare workers remains a critical issue. They shared personal accounts of injuries sustained by staff, including a behavioral health technician who required surgery due to a leg injury and another who suffered a dislocated shoulder.
The discussion underscored the pressing need for improved safety measures and support for healthcare workers, as the current situation continues to pose significant risks to their well-being. The committee's focus on these issues reflects a broader concern for the safety and health of those working in the District's healthcare system.