[Abuse in healthcare - lessons learned during two decades of research]

Patients' experience of abuse in health care (AHC) is common, and may cause long-lasting suffering. In Sweden, lifetime prevalence is estimated at 20 per cent among female patients and 8 per cent among male patients, and a background of other abuse is a risk factor. Most health care staff have experience of patients who have been abused, but the topic is surrounded by silence from both patients and caregivers. Models for training staff in groups have been evaluated and a more proactive stance can be fostered. Department heads and health care authorities are responsible for providing staff with options to counteract AHC. Caregivers need training in how to carry out consultations with patients who say they have been abused in health care, and this training should be included in efforts to increase quality of care. Changes are within reach but educational efforts are urgent.