On August 6, 2022, a doctor was attacked by a patient’s family member at the Emergency Department, of HCM City’s Gia Định People's Hospital. VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI Police will increase security at hospitals following a recent spate of attacks on medical staff by patients and their family members.

In one incident in August, a doctor was assaulted by a man armed with a knife at the Emergency Department, of HCM City’s Gia Định People's Hospital.

And in July, medical staff were chased through the Department of Surgery and Trauma at Vĩnh Long Province’s General Hospital by a man wielding a knife.

The authorities say that these shocking incidents not only put the lives of health workers at risk, but also hamper important medical treatment.

Lương Ngọc Khuê, Director of the Department of Medical Examination and Treatment, said that the Ministry of Health, has asked the Ministry of Public Security to strengthen coordination in ensuring security and order at hospitals.

A special hotline has been set up to allow incidents to be reported and enable police officers to quickly respond.

Traffic police will also increase patrols outside hospital buildings. VNS