In April of 2022, we called for community, governmental, and personal support to combat violence within health care settings. A basic tenet of optimal care is an open, safe, and mutually respectful interaction that promotes health. All seeking care and all a part of giving care — in many roles — want and deserve the assurance that no harm will be intentionally inflicted, that verbal exchanges will be clear and without threat, and that together the best plans and actions can be made.

The event Feb. 22 in York, Pa., reminds us about the increased frequency of violence in the health care setting. Those involved are in our thoughts, notably the heroic heath care members and peace officers at the site. We want this to cease.

Violence can include verbal assaults, physical interactions, and harm. These are reported more often now and degrade the ability deliver the care all want and deserve. We know frustrations can exist when not feeling well or when in need, but frustration can never justify violence in any of the forms noted.

At our health sites and systems, we are committed to access and safe interactions, and we will always work toward both goals.

We ask your support. That means never choosing, using, or condoning extreme language, threats, uninvited bodily contact, weapons in any form, or other forms of intimidation or coercion when in a health care setting. It also means speaking up and out when you see the signs of or events of harm.

As health care leaders, we and our teams want to serve you; please join us and stand up for ensuring the kind of safe environment we all benefit from each day.

Western Pennsylvania Regional Chief Medical Officers Consortium:

Donald M. Yealy, MD, UPMC

Bethany Casagranda, MD, AHN

Carol J. Fox, MD, Independence Health

Thomas Pangburn, MD, Heritage Valley Health System

Trina Abla, MD, Penn Highlands

John T. Sullivan, MD, Health St. Clair Health

Ali F. Sonel, MD, Pittsburgh VA Health System

David Csikos, MD, Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center

Elizabeth Dunmore, MD, Conemaugh Health System

Richard Neff, MD, Indiana Regional Medical Center

T. Clark Simpson, MD, director medical staff affairs, Punxsutawney Area Hospital