A startling new study from Birkbeck University has revealed that nearly half of doctors worldwide have experienced sexual harassment from patients.
Led by Dr. Caroline Kamau-Mitchell and published in the Internal Medicine Journal, this pioneering research is the first global systematic review to address this critical issue. The findings indicate that 45% of doctors have faced various forms of harassment, including unwanted sexual advances, inappropriate comments, and physical contact during medical examinations.
The review, which encompasses data from 22 studies involving 18,803 doctors across multiple specialities and countries, highlights a concerning trend: female doctors are significantly more affected, with 52.19% reporting harassment compared to 34.39% of their male counterparts. The study found that the highest rates of harassment occur in the UK, followed by Canada, Australia, and the United States.
Dr Kamau-Mitchell’s research also sheds light on the severe impact of harassment on doctors’ well-being, with some reporting insecurity and resorting to security measures such as locking office doors or installing CCTV at home. The study advocates for hospitals and clinics to adopt protective measures, including panic alarms and enhanced surveillance, particularly for doctors working alone or in isolated settings.
Although the World Health Organization acknowledges workplace sexual harassment as a significant issue, this research provides the first comprehensive data on patient-to-doctor harassment. Dr. Kamau-Mitchell emphasized the need for thoughtful implementation of safety measures, ensuring that patient confidentiality is preserved while addressing this serious concern.
The study calls for immediate action and greater awareness to protect medical professionals from the pervasive issue of sexual harassment.