AGENCY TESTIMONY
CHS efforts to address sexual assault and abuse against staff
0:59:59
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101 sec
CHS has implemented various measures to ensure staff safety and address workplace violence, including sexual offenses. These efforts involve collaboration with the Department of Correction (DOC) and healthcare unions.
- Expanded safety operations team and strengthened partnerships with DOC
- Implemented situational awareness training, including addressing workplace sexual abuse
- Conducts regular risk assessment walk-throughs with healthcare unions
- Reported 311 workplace violence incidents in the last calendar year, including 56 sexual offenses
- Provides support and resources for staff following workplace violence incidents
Jeanette Merrill
0:59:59
The safety of our staff, particularly those who provide patient care in the jails, remains a top priority for CHS.
1:00:05
In recent years, CHS has expanded the size and scope of the team that manages its safety operations and has worked to build stronger partnerships and workflows with the New York City Department of Correction.
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Together, CHS and DOC have developed and implemented situational awareness training, which includes addressing workplace sexual abuse and harassment as a part of the CHS new employee orientation.
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The CHS safety team also regularly conducts rounds in the jail facilities and risk assessment walk throughs with our healthcare unions.
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1199, 11980, DC37, Doctors Council, and the New York State Nurses Association.
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Last calendar year, CHS staff reported 311 workplace violence incidents, which include 56 sexual offenses.
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Following a workplace violence incident against our staff, CHS works with DOC to implement plans to support staff and mitigate future risk.
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These may include employee or patient transfers or separation orders.
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In addition to documenting the incident, the CHS safety team meets with the employee to check on their well-being, to offer resources and support, and to assist the employee in completing an incident form, and in receiving a medical evaluation if NASA vary.
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This is in addition to the real time support provided by direct supervisors.
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If the employee would like to file criminal charges against the patient involved in a workplace violence incident, CHS will connect the individual with the DOC Correction Intelligence Bureau.
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We will continue to work with DOC in our unions to ensure we maximize our staff's safety in the workplace.
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Not only because it is their right as employees, but also because a safe environment is necessary for the provision of quality health care.
