Experts have called for a safe and secure working environment for emergency healthcare workers at a programme organized by the Society of Acute Care, Trauma and Emergency Medicine (SACTEM) to mark World Emergency Medicine Day 2026 on Wednesday.
Nationwide Events Highlight Safety Concerns
SACTEM conducted walkathons and awareness campaigns in multiple cities, including Lucknow, Hyderabad, Patna, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jaipur and Chennai. The events brought together emergency physicians, trauma surgeons, nurses, paramedics and other healthcare workers to underline the need to strengthen emergency care systems and ensure protection for frontline medical staff.
This year's theme, 'Safe Space for Emergency Medicine Teams – Stop Violence Everywhere,' highlighted growing concerns over incidents of violence against doctors, nurses and emergency care personnel. Speakers said such attacks disrupt critical services and undermine patient care, particularly in high-pressure emergency departments and trauma centres.
Key Voices from the Programme
Prof Samir Misra of King George's Medical University stressed that safety and security measures for healthcare professionals must be prioritised. He said a secure workplace was essential for effective emergency care delivery and expressed concern over repeated attacks on frontline workers.
Dr Lokendra Gupta, director of emergency medicine at Medanta, said emergency and trauma care services in Uttar Pradesh improved in recent years due to stronger ambulance networks, better trauma response systems and increased public awareness initiatives. He said continued investment and community engagement were needed to sustain gains.
Heatstroke Awareness Walkathon in Lucknow
In Lucknow, SACTEM organised a heatstroke and summer safety awareness walkathon at Janeshwar Mishra Park. Specialists from Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences and other institutions participated. The campaign focused on heatstroke prevention, hydration awareness, early recognition of heat emergencies and preparedness for timely emergency response.
The events underscored the collective commitment to creating a safer environment for those who save lives every day.
