Workplace Violence in Digital Healthcare: Understanding Challenges and Developing Guidelines (DIGI-RISK)

Time period:

1 July 2025 – 30 June 2029

Project leader:

Åsa Cajander

Funder:

Forte

Type of award:

Project grant

Total funding:

4,996,000 SEK

Research Problem and Specific QuestionsDigital workplace violence in video consultations and chat services, for example, represents growing challenges that affect healthcare staff´s mental health and professional performance. This project addresses these risks by exploring their prevalence, underlying causes, and potential mitigation strategies.The project explores the following questions:How do digital healthcare services influence the work environment of healthcare professionals, particularly concerning workplace violence?What differences in the prevalence of workplace violence exist between healthcare contexts and professions?What factors contribute to the emergence of workplace violence in digital care environments, and how can these risks be mitigated?How can evidence-based recommendations be designed to enhance workplace safety in digital healthcare?Data and MethodDIGI-RISK employs an exploratory sequential design that combines qualitative and quantitative methods. In-depth interviews with healthcare staff and managers identify risk factors and themes. These findings inform a national survey mapping the prevalence and patterns of threats. A literature study identifies strategies from existing workplace violence research and guidelines, combined with empirical findings, to develop and validate practical safety guidelines.The project’s theoretical framework enables a multifaceted analysis of technological, organisational, and interpersonal factors.Societal Relevance and UtilisationDIGI-RISK addresses a major societal challenge by improving safety for healthcare professionals in digital environments. This will contribute to better quality of care and workplace security. Insights from this project will also inform other sectors undergoing digital transformation. Results will be shared through scientific publications, targeted reports, and collaboration with reference groups to ensure broad implementation and impact.Plan for Project RealisationA multidisciplinary team leads the project with expertise in human-computer interaction, gender studies, occupational health, and design. Data collection includes qualitative interviews, a national survey, and a literature study. The development of guidelines emphasises collaboration with healthcare professionals and stakeholders to ensure practical, user-centred solutions.