"I'm receiving so many messages of solidarity. Aside from my patients, many colleagues and the leaders of my union, the Federation of General Practitioners, have called me. I'm moved." Chiara Puxeddu, a young doctor from Dolianova, who was the victim of a severe verbal attack by a patient, has still not gotten over the shock . "I took a few days off to decide what to do. I'm seriously considering resigning. I can't imagine having to go to the office and be scared."
The unfortunate incident occurred last Wednesday. Arriving at the office a few minutes late due to traffic on the 554, Dr. Puxeddu was attacked by a patient: "Do you think it's time to get here?" When the doctor asked for an explanation, the patient persisted, becoming hostile. "I asked for an explanation, but he didn't change his tone, blaming me for not having responded to a WhatsApp message. He was very nervous and aggressive. When I asked him to get in line and wait his turn, he escalated the situation. I asked him to leave the office. As he was leaving, he said, 'I'd kick your…' I was shocked. I was wrong not to call the police immediately. I should have reacted immediately, but I couldn't."
Today, she made the painful decision to go public with the story in an interview with Unione Sarda. "It's right that people know. It's not the first time I've found myself in these situations. Another time, I filed a complaint with the Carabinieri, but then withdrew it because the person who attacked me was at risk of losing his job . Many advised me to let it go. But I don't know if that's right." After her public outburst, the doctor has received countless messages of support: "It's very nice. This affection is the only thing that keeps me going. However, everyone needs to be aware. We're not the ones who have to protect ourselves; it's up to the institutions to find a solution. We have the right to be able to work peacefully."
Dolianova Mayor Ivan Piras strongly condemned the incident: "We extend our full support and solidarity to Dr. Puxeddu. This disrespect, especially towards a woman and someone who provides a vital service to the community, is unacceptable. We are in contact with law enforcement to determine how to stem this type of situation and protect those who provide their services. These incidents must always be reported."
