Violence an “Epidemic” for Healthcare Facilities

​An October 31, 2012, article in Risk & Insurance states that violence has reached "epidemic" proportions in healthcare facilities, including long-term care facilities. Through a survey on the subject, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) found that healthcare workers are among the most susceptible to workplace violence and issued procedures on how to evaluate the issue for OSHA employees when responding to incidents and complaints. The Joint Commission has seen an increase in violent acts reported by member facilities but acknowledges that these incidents are underreported.