The draft states public order at hospitals should not be disturbed. Security checks must be undertaken before entering hospitals, and security guards should report to the police if they find anyone attempting to bring restricted or hazardous items inside. Medical workers have the right to refuse treatment when their safety is threatened.

In recent years, authorities at all levels of government have formulated measures to protect medical workers and hospitals have stepped up their security. Yet these efforts have failed to prevent attacks on doctors and nurses by patients or their relatives.

The draft provides comprehensive articles to ensure security at hospitals and will be improved after review.

It is the first time medical staff have been empowered to deploy strategies of evasion. The details still need perfecting, such as plans to take care of the patients if doctors leave the wards.

People who have a record of attacking or threatening medical workers are to be accompanied by hospital guards while they receive treatment, another highlight of the draft. In order to identify high-risk individuals, hospitals need to share information about patients. The draft also proposes the establishment of a platform providing security information for hospitals in the city.

The new legislation is an effective way to ensure security and order in hospitals. The municipal government's work is expected to provide a reference and experience for others.

(This is an edited excerpt of an article originally published in Beijing Youth Daily on March 27)