​Bullying or aggressive behaviors between healthcare providers, such as verbal abuse and intimidation, can be a threat to safe patient care. Bullying behaviors can inhibit teamwork, obstruct communication, and delay implementation of new practices; it can interfere with patient care. This type of behavior may contribute to low worker morale, absenteeism, and high rates of staff turnover.

​Of the bullying events reported through the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Reporting System from July 1, 2014, through June 30, 2016, most occurred in the perioperative area, involved physicians as the perpetrators, and included verbal abuse and intimidating behaviors. The small number of events reports over the two-year period may reflect a lack of recognition of bullying behaviors, particularly if they are covert; a reluctance to report for fear of retribution; and absence of a category for bullying as it relates to patient safety.

Note: As reported to the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority, July 1, 2014, through June 30, 2016.