A Massachusetts hospital has implemented a policy that would conceivably deny care for a person accused of microaggressions such as words that are “hostile” or “vulgar,” a refusal to see a staff member based on stating any opposition to their claimed gender, or the prospective patient’s “body language and tone of voice.”
In a video, Dr. Peter Smulowitz, the Chief Medical Officer at Milford Regional Medical Center, which has 149 beds, stated the hospital’s current policy.
“Milford Regional Medical Center is committed to providing exceptional health care services to our community with dignity, compassion and respect,” he asserted. “Everyone should expect a safe, caring and inclusive environment in all our spaces. Our patient and visitor code of conduct helps us meet this goal. Words or actions that are disrespectful, racist, discriminatory, hostile or harassing are not welcome and will not be tolerated.”
“Examples of these include offensive comments about others’ race, ethnicity, accent, religion, gender, sexual orientation or other personal traits, refusal to see a clinician or other staff member based on these personal traits, aggressive or intimidating behavior, physical or verbal threats and assaults, sexual or vulgar words or actions, and disrupting another patient’s care or experience,” he continued. “Please recognize that body language and tone of voice are also important parts of communication.”
“If we believe you have violated our code with unwelcome words or actions, you will be given a chance to explain your point of view,” he cautioned. “We will always carefully consider your response before we make any decisions about future care at Milford Regional. Know that we also have a similar code of conduct in place for our staff and providers. To review the full patient and visitor code of conduct, visit our website.”
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He concluded by noting the hospital’s commitment to “inclusion,” saying, “We look forward to continuing to serve our community and trust that this code of conduct clarifies expectations and reinforces our commitment to a safe, caring and inclusive environment for all.”