Violence against doctors is hurting health care.

Physicians and other health care providers cannot deliver quality, timely care to patients when their own safety is at risk.  

Doctors of BC is sounding the alarm about the need for greater physical and psychological safety for doctors—together, we can ensure that those who care for others are protected, supported, and empowered to continue their essential work for British Columbians.

Access supports for physicians

What doctors are saying

More than half of physicians reported experiencing a physical or psychological safety encounter in 2025.

  • 51% of physicians have been involved in, or impacted by, a physical or psychological safety issue or incident at their hospital/facility or practice.
  • Physical and psychological safety incidents are widespread, with patient violence representing 72% of the physical safety concerns.
  • Two-thirds of physicians do not feel that their workplace effectively deals with situations that may threaten or harm employees, such as harassment, discrimination, or violence.

Source: 2025 Doctors of BC Health Authority Engagement Survey

“One patient was emailing over 100 times a day usually escalating until the early morning with threats of violence against myself and staff"

—Anonymous physician

 

“A patient threatened to kill me and clinic staff in response to canceling his driver's licence.”

—Anonymous physician

“I see daily issues of deteriorating conditions in my emergency department…acts of aggression by patients, people intoxicated with drugs and alcohol, and severe safety incidents regarding my colleagues. A patient pulled out machete and threatened people…a triage nurse punched in the face by a patient."

—Anonymous physician

Why is this happening

  • Increasing patient volume and a rising number of people in crisis without adequate support adds to volatility in health care environments.
  • Insufficient health care resources, such as doctor shortages, cause frustration for those seeking medical care, including long waits and overcrowded ERs.
  • Inadequate security measures in hospitals or doctors’ offices.

What are the solutions

  • Ensure meaningful zero-tolerance policies, preventive measures, and processes in hospitals.
  • Firm commitments and a revitalized action plan from both the provincial government and health authorities towards addressing violence and harassment in health care facilities.
  • Improve prevention as well as urgent response and follow-up when issues occur.
  • Invest in better access to mental health and addictions support for patients.

What British Columbians can do

Abuse against doctors is hurting our health care social tile
  • Show empathy and patience. Doctors know the frustration their patients may have with wait times or the health care system. Know that physicians don’t want to leave you waiting.
  • Be understanding when communicating with physicians and other health care professionals. They are doing their best in often very challenging circumstances.
  • Show your appreciation. Leave a heartfelt thank-you or share a story of how a physician has made a difference. Post a Thank a Doc message.
  • Share our message on social media to raise awareness of this issue. Download and share our social media tile.

What Doctors of BC is doing

We are working with partners across British Columbia to help create safer workplaces, stronger physician supports, and more inclusive, patient-centred health care.

Collaborating directly with the Ministry of Health and health authorities to bring forward physicians' perspectives and ideas to improve physical and psychological safety. This is done through Doctors of BC working groups established in each health authority.

Offering continued assistance to members impacted by violence in the workplace through the Physician Health Program (1,100 cases to date in 2026) and on-the-ground help through our regional advisors and advocates.

Engaging with municipalities and Indigenous partners to support unique and new solutions to retain and keep doctors in communities.

Partnering with agencies such as SwitchBC to improve training and support for physicians.

Advocating and raising the physician voice through our President's Letter for members and the media.

Continuing our commitment to cultural safety and the eradication of Indigenous-specific racism by recognizing the negative impact that colonialism has and continues to have on Indigenous communities, and how unsafe health care spaces have left many Indigenous patients fearful to seek medical assistance. We are dedicated to adopting education and practices that recognize, respect and respond to the unique histories and values of Indigenous peoples. Learn more about our truth and reconciliation commitments.

Physicians facing violence—we're here to help

The Physician Health Program (PHP) offers support doctors experiencing issues related to mental health, relationship stress, career and life transitions, substance use, and concern for colleagues.

24/7 confidential helpline; phone: +1 800 663-6729

  • You will be connected immediately with a master’s-level, registered clinical counsellor.
  • They can offer crisis counselling or provide access to other PHP services.

Non-urgent support

Contact the Physician Health Program and be connected with PHP’s clinical team.

Support your colleagues