LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Kentucky Hospital Association (KHA) has introduced a new initiative to raise awareness and support for ending violence against hospital and health care employees.
Kentucky is home to some of the nation’s top hospitals, but safety for medical staff has become an increasingly serious concern. KHA reports that health care workers are six times more likely to experience workplace violence than employees in other industries.
In 2024, Kentucky passed a law making any assault against a health care worker in a health care setting a class D felony, punishable by one to five years in prison. In emergency situations, the offense can be elevated to a class C felony, carrying a sentence of five to ten years.
KHA leaders hope the campaign encourages everyone to share the message widely and help ensure a safe working environment for hospital and health care employees.
“We are very careful with the messaging. We want to take better care of you. As one of our posters says, hospitals are a healing place, and we want to keep it safe for everyone. The PSA highlights the new felony law but mainly reminds patients and their families that this is a safe place. The safer we are, the better we can care for you and your loved ones, and we welcome questions along the way,” said John Hamm, associate vice president for KHA.
Hamm noted that multiple incidents have already resulted in arrests under the new statute.
A key focus of the campaign is educating patients, their families, and visitors about the consequences of violent behavior.
“We recognize that health care can be highly stressful for patients and their families and friends, but that does not justify acting violently toward health care professionals. All of our members agree and want to make changes,” Hamm said.
He added that every social media share, conversation, and step toward respect contributes to a safer environment.
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