An ER Doctor Reflects on Gun Violence, Health Inequities, and Moral Injury: An interview with Dr. Ruby J. Long

Curt and Katie interview Dr. Ruby Long, ER doctor and restorative justice advocate, about the devastating impact of gun violence in the U.S. and its designation as a public health crisis. Dr. Long highlights its rise as the leading cause of death for children and adolescents and shares the emotional toll on healthcare providers. She reflects on compassion fatigue and moral injury in the ER, which was exacerbated by health inequity and the covid pandemic.

Transcripts for this episode will be available at mtsgpodcast.com!

In this podcast episode, we talk with Dr. Ruby Long about gun violence

Dr. Ruby J. Long has been an ER doctor for a long time and has seen a lot of gun violence come through her doors. She is reaching out to help providers understand the specifics, provides a helpful acronym and is sharing her resourceful book. 

The Reality of Gun Violence in the U.S.

• 54% of U.S. adults have been directly affected by firearm violence.
• Gun violence has surpassed other leading causes of death for children and adolescents.
• Firearms are the leading cause of death in suicides.
• It is important that providers are able to identify risk factors, particularly for senior males and veterans, and promoting secure gun storage.

How can gun violence impact the medical and mental health providers who are supporting victims?

• The moral injuries and trauma healthcare professionals face from witnessing the physical and mental health impacts of gun violence.
• Dr. Long shares her own experiences as an ER doctor and the profound emotional impact of treating gunshot victims.

The importance of responsible gun storage and using the "Be SMART" approach:

• Secure guns.
• Model responsible behavior.
• Ask about unsecured guns.
• Recognize the role of guns in suicide.
• Tell peers about gun safety.

Provider Support and Self-Care:

• Coping with burnout and moral injuries through personal limits, professional therapy, and systemic support (beyond yoga mats and pizza parties)
• The importance of small, focused actions in advocating for gun safety and violence prevention.

Dr. Long’s Book: Love Letters to Patients

• Inspired by her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Offers resources for health challenges like suicide, domestic violence, and overdose.
• Aims to empower patients and encourage early intervention.

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Modern Therapist’s Survival Guide Creative Credits:

Voice Over by DW McCann https://www.facebook.com/McCannDW/

Music by Crystal Grooms Mangano https://groomsymusic.com/