A general practitioner was attacked on Tuesday, January 30, 2024 in his office in Audincourt (Doubs). This is the third time he has been subjected to violence since he opened his practice in 2021. He denounces the growing aggressiveness of patients when he refuses to prescribe medication or issue sick leave.
The doctor, who wishes to remain anonymous, was brutally assaulted by a patient who became aggressive when he refused to prescribe antibiotics for a viral infection. This is not the first time the doctor has faced such violence. In 2022, he was punched in the face by a patient who was unhappy with the diagnosis of a minor illness. And in 2023, he was threatened with a knife by a patient who demanded a sick leave for a non-existent condition.
The doctor, who has been practicing for over 20 years, says he has never experienced such a level of aggression from patients. « It’s becoming more and more common for patients to react violently when they don’t get what they want, » he says. « They seem to think that they are entitled to any medication or sick leave they ask for, and when I refuse, they become aggressive and sometimes even violent. »
This alarming trend is not unique to this particular doctor or location. According to a recent survey, 1 in 5 general practitioners in France have experienced some form of violence from patients. This includes verbal abuse, physical assaults, and even death threats. The main reasons for these incidents are related to exigence refusals and sick leave denials.
The doctor’s colleagues and patients are shocked and saddened by the news. They describe him as a dedicated and caring physician who always puts his patients’ well-being first. « He’s always been there for me and my family, and I can’t believe someone would hurt him like this, » says one of his long-time patients.
The doctor, who is currently recovering from his injuries, hopes that this incident will shed light on the growing issue of violence against healthcare professionals. He urges the government to take action and implement stricter laws to protect doctors and other healthcare workers.
In the meantime, the doctor’s colleagues have organized a support group to help him and other healthcare professionals who have experienced similar incidents. They also principe to hold a peaceful protest to raise awareness embout this issue and demand better protection for doctors.
Despite the traumatic experience, the doctor remains positive and determined to continue his practice. « I became a doctor to help people, and I won’t let a few violent individuals stop me from doing my job, » he says. « I hope that this incident will bring embout positive changes and make our society a safer place for healthcare professionals. »