A new report from the American Hospital Association (AHA) highlights that U.S. hospitals incurred a staggering $18.27 billion in costs related to violence in 2023. The analysis reveals a significant portion of this expenditure—$3.62 billion—was allocated to preventative measures such as training programs and security enhancements, emphasizing the pressing need for safety in healthcare settings.
Moreover, over $14 billion of these costs arise from healthcare treatments for victims of violence, including costs associated with fatal and nonfatal injuries. AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack stresses that healthcare workers, who dedicate themselves to healing, should not have to contend with violence as part of their duties. As violent incidents continue to rise post-COVID-19, this report underscores the urgent need for effective strategies to protect both healthcare professionals and patients alike.
Read full story at www.aha.org
