"We are evaluating the fastest way to introduce deferred arrest in flagrante delicto also for the perpetrators of violence against operators". This was stated by the Minister of Health Orazio Schillaci , interviewed by Corriere della Sera regarding the government's measures on actions to combat violence against hospital facilities and healthcare personnel.
"The issue is important to everyone," Schillaci emphasizes. "I don't think we'll have any difficulty finding a parliamentary agreement. The situation is unsustainable and we want to stop the escalation of aggression."
Deferred flagrancy consists in the arrest of the perpetrator of the crime 48 hours after the episode if he has video and photo evidence , a measure that would equate hospitals to stadiums: "Unfortunately we have reached this point - notes Schillaci - Filters at the entrances and cameras are other useful tools. It is a cultural change that does not only concern healthcare. Just look at what happens in schools, where teachers are beaten up".
Among other measures, "we are working on staff training and awareness campaigns for citizens." And the police posts in the emergency rooms are increasing : "In one year, the garrisons have risen from 126 to 198 and Piantedosi has committed to increasing them. The officers have gone from 299 to 432. A strong deterrent, certainly. But if it happens like in Pescara and Foggia, where 40 people attacked the emergency room, even these measures may prove insufficient."
(Unioneonline/vl)
