Protecting those who care

Recognizing the prevalence of sexual harassment in the healthcare sector and following the Supreme Court's May 2023 directives, the National Medical Commission (NMC) mandated that all healthcare institutions in India form committees to investigate allegations of sexual harassment against any employee. These committees must also ensure adherence to the provisions of the PoSH Act.

In a medical setting, vulnerability is not exclusive to patients. Healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, therapists, and administrative staff, have also been victims of inappropriate behavior. While patients often seek solace and care, health care professionals are also entrusted with sensitive information and are exposed to stressful situations that can make them targets for harassment, abuse, or discrimination.

A significant challenge in the Indian healthcare sector is the prevalence of sexual harassment, yet many reported cases remain unresolved.

This complex issue arises from a number of factors, some of the most important being:

1. Inadequate complaint mechanisms - Most healthcare institutions in India lack well-established and accessible Internal Committees (IC) or formal reporting procedures. This leaves aggrieved women without an internal redressal mechanism for addressing their grievances.
2. Lack of Sensitisation - In healthcare regarding gender-based discrimination and violence, it is crucial for other men to become active allies, stepping in to challenge and reject harassment.
3. Unique nature of the healthcare Industry - The medical industry stands apart in its unique dynamic of patient-doctor interactions due to the intimate nature of the relationship. Unlike other industries where transactions are often superficial, the healthcare setting requires deep trust and a high degree of personal disclosure and physical touch. Moreover, the physical examination process involves close contact and exposure, reinforcing the sense of vulnerability and the need for trust. This unique dynamic shapes the expectations and experiences of both patients and doctors. Given the intimate nature of doctor-patient interactions and the power imbalance inherent in the relationship, the medical industry is particularly vulnerable to issues of harassment, especially sexual harassment. Patients are often in vulnerable states and may feel hesitant to report such incidents due to fear of retaliation or disbelief.

To address the pervasive issue of sexual harassment in the Indian healthcare industry, institutions must take proactive steps:

1. Implement robust policies and awareness initiatives: Establish comprehensive anti-sexual harassment policies and conduct regular training programs for all staff and patients. These initiatives should emphasize the importance of reporting incidents and promote a culture of respect and dignity.
2. Clearly visible protocols: Establish expectations for both patients and visitors, reducing confusion and misunderstandings by having protocols publicised throughout the campuses of health care. This can help prevent conflicts and ensure a more positive environment.
3. Conduct regular monitoring and evaluation: Implement ongoing assessments and surveys to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and refine the system for addressing sexual harassment effectively.
4. Mandatory Training: Integrate mandatory gender-related training into the medical curriculum to raise awareness and equip future healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to prevent and address these issues.

While the journey towards creating a safer healthcare industry in India is long, these recommendations can help pave the way forward.