DOCTORS, nurses, paramedics and other medical staff work tirelessly and under immense pressure to provide medical care to those in need. However, despite their invaluable service, healthcare workers are increasingly becoming victims of verbal abuse, harassment, physical assaults and other forms of violence. The recent acid attack on a lady doctor at Civil Hospital Quetta (CHQ) serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by healthcare professionals. The doctor suffered severe burn injuries after being attacked while on duty. This horrifying incident shocked the nation and highlighted the urgent need for stronger measures to protect health-care workers.

Unfortunately, such incidents are not isolated. Across the country, healthcare workers frequently face aggression from patients and their attendants, particularly in overcrowded public hospitals where resources are limited and emotions often run high. In many cases, doctors are unfairly blamed for circumstances beyond their control, leading to confrontations that can escalate into violence. These attacks not only threaten the safety and wellbeing of healthcare professionals, but also disrupt hospital operations and compromise patient care.

The consequences of such violence extend far beyond the individuals directly affected. Fear, stress and insecurity can severely impact the morale and mental health of healthcare workers. Many talented professionals may choose to leave the public healthcare sector or even seek opportunities abroad, which will worsen the existing shortage of medical personnel in the country. It is, hence, imperative for the government, hospital adminis-trations, and law-enforcement agencies to take immediate and decisive action. Hospitals should be equipped with adequate security personnel, surveillance cameras, emergency response systems, and controlled entry points.

Laws must be enforced strictly against those who threaten or attack healthcare workers, and offenders should face swift and exemplary punishment.

Besides, public awareness campaigns should now be launched to educate citizens about the challenges faced by our health professionals and the importance of treating them with respect and dignity.

Zainab Nawal
Karachi

Published in Dawn, July 25th, 2026