Since 2006, news outlets have reported dozens of violent crimes against veterinary professionals in their workplaces in the United States, ranging from simple assault to homicide, murder–suicide, and rape, followed by murder. The offender may be a client, a stranger, a team member, or an outsider in a volatile relationship with a team member.
Source: Veterinary Team Brief, May 2015.
Suzanne Smither provides perspective and ideas to prepare. It is a disturbing trend prompting increased efforts to secure facilities, establish policies and protocols, train team members, and counsel victims.
INSIGHTS: Sales representatives can be part of the vigilance team for practices as they come and go month by month. If something doesn’t seem right during a visit or as you arrive, don’t be afraid to talk with a practice employee and share your concern.