HEALTH chiefs are considering withholding treatment from violent or abusive patients to protect staff.

A new report on behalf of six primary care trusts outlines the steps being taken to provide a safe environment for employees and patients.

The report says that refusing to treat disruptive patients is a last resort.

The move is part of the Violence, Aggression and Abuse policy being adopted by the Darlington, Derwentside, Durham and Chester-le-Street, Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield trusts.

Health and safety advisor Keith Charlton said more than 300 employees would be trained - at a cost of £8,000 - in how to deal with threatening situations.

Mr Charlton said: "The protection of trust staff from violence and aggressive incidents is paramount.

"The withholding or withdrawing of medical treatment is the suspension of the right to healthcare.

"It should be time limited and should include an assessment of risk from the abuser and those being abused."

Notices will be displayed in doctors' surgeries explaining what constitutes unacceptable conduct - and the consequences of not adhering to the rules. The files of patients whose behaviour is considered violent could also be marked.