ATTACKS on doctors and nurses are symptoms of a sick society. It is impossible to comprehend why patients would turn on their carers and subject them to violence and intimidation. Talk about biting off the hand that heals you.

Yet violence is becoming so common that York Health Services NHS Trust has been forced to put up posters in hospitals and clinics warning it will no longer be tolerated. Police will be called at the first sign of trouble.

York NHS Trust's get-tough policy is crucial to protect its dedicated staff.

Thanks to their training, professionalism and sheer compassion, they cannot refuse to treat an injured person - no matter how much they fear or dislike them.