American College of Cardiology wants clinicians to feel ‘safe, supported and respected’
The American College of Cardiology (ACC) has launched Cardio Safe, a new initiative designed to provide cardiologists and other cardiovascular health professionals with a safer, more respectful work environment.
Today’s clinicians face an increased risk of being mistreated by patients or the family members and friends of patients. Cardio Safe, backed by a grant from The Physicians Foundation, was developed to help address that issue and protect the well-being of cardiologists, nurses and all other healthcare providers who interact with patients on a daily basis. Research has shown again and again that mistreatment at the hands of patients and other visitors is one of the leading drivers of burnout in the U.S. healthcare system.
“Clinicians can't provide their best care if they don't feel safe, supported and respected,” Laxmi S. Mehta, MD, MBA, Cardio Safe lead and chair of ACC's Membership Committee, said in a statement. “The safety and well-being of clinicians is closely linked to the quality of care they provide. Cardio Safe reflects ACC's commitment to equipping both individuals and institutions with the tools needed to promote safety, respect and psychological security in every care interaction.”
“Creating safe, respectful care environments is not optional,” added Geoffrey A. Rose, MD, a member of the Cardio Safe Educational Steering Work Group and ACC Board of Trustees. “While the overwhelming majority of patient-clinician interactions are positive, healthcare leaders must be prepared to address the situations that are not. Cardio Safe provides practical tools to help teams respond effectively, support one another, and strengthen a culture of respect for everyone involved in care.”
The Cardio Safe program is scheduled to offer programs focused on communication techniques, navigating difficult situations and engaging with leaders when issues do arise. ACC members are encouraged to reach out to share their own resources and lessons related to this important topic.
Michael has more than 19 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.