While the majority of the public in Renfrew County and District have been supportive, the Acting Chief Medical Officer of Health for the region’s health unit is calling out those who verbally abuse healthcare workers.
In a letter to the public, Dr. Robert Cushman says harassing behaviour will no longer be tolerated. Citing an increase in worker burnout, Cushman says it is putting strain on an already fragile system. If these behaviourr continues, healthcare workers quitting their jobs could be more of a concern than a lack of hospital beds.
Dr. Cushman adds that kindness and respect are as much a part of fighting the pandemic as vaccines and health measures. He reminds residents that many healthcare workers are receiving verbal abuse for things beyond their control, and warns that their leaving over that abuse could mean they will not be there to help the public when they need it most. He says everyone needs to do their part in the pandemic, and that the continued support of the public is crucial to fighting COVID-19