As COVID cases have risen in recent weeks, the Saskatchewan Health Authority is hearing from an increasing number of front-line staff, particularly contact tracers, that they are experiencing disrespectful behaviour and verbal abuse from members of the public in the execution of their duties.
The following statement on this matter is being issued on behalf of Scott Livingstone, CEO:
As a citizen of this province, I want to start by saying sorry to all those who have been subjected to this extremely unfortunate behavior. You have stepped up to be on the front-line to confront a global pandemic. You deserve much better.
Celebrating our health care workers goes beyond just posting to social media that you support front line physicians and staff. It must be modelled in our everyday interactions with them.
I am asking the public to show respect and compassion for all of our physicians and staff and patience for them as they face down the unprecedented pressures of a global pandemic.
Together, we need to do better reminding everyone in Saskatchewan that valuing our health care workers is not demonstrated only through the things we say, but the things we do.
I would also remind members of the public that our ability as a health system to be there when they need us is dependent on their efforts to fight COVID-19. So supporting health care works means washing hands regularly, physical distancing, masking up in public indoor spaces, staying home when ill, limiting bubble sizes as much as possible and abiding by all public health orders.