Nearly 2,000 NHS workers have been assaulted by patients in Kent over the last three years, new figures show.
Richard Hampton, director of NHS Security Management Service, said the majority of the 1,870 attacks were by people who were drunk or on drugs.
A campaign has begun to reduce the number of assaults on healthcare staff.
Offenders are being warned through adverts on train platforms, in pub toilets and on billboards that they will be prosecuted – and could be jailed.
Mr Hampton said: “This is no defence for such behaviour. The choice is yours - whether you are frustrated, drunk or on drugs, you will be held accountable for your actions.
“You could end up before the courts or in prison.”
Superintendent Peter Wedlake, of Kent Police, said: “We will ensure that anyone who commits this crime is dealt with and brought before the courts. This offence can ultimately lead to a prison sentence.
“Although we realise that people are often in stressful situations within hospital environments, this is no excuse or reason to vent their frustration or upset staff who are there to help them.”
POSTED: 27/03/2008 16:06:43