UAFP Statement on Recent Gun Violence

These past few weeks have been especially tragic with shootings in Texas, New York, California, Oklahoma, and by the time this is published, there will likely be more to add to that list. The Utah Academy of Family Physicians extends its condolences to all those who have been victimized by gun violence. This unending and senseless gun violence is an epidemic in the United States and must be addressed.

The unwillingness to act continues to put people at risk and we join with others who are saying enough is enough. We must act—as a country, as citizens, and as physicians who are gravely concerned with the health and well-being of our communities.

We must work together to seriously study the root causes of the violence, better assess potential threats, create more effective training for early intervention, and most of all, we must strengthen our gun regulations. To continue ignoring this public health crisis is unacceptable, as leaders in our community we demand change.

We call on our leaders, our fellow health care community members, community groups, faith-based organizations, and the compassionate people of Utah, to join together and work for reasonable solutions to this growing and disastrous epidemic of gun violence.

Contact Information:

Maryann Martindale, CEO, Utah Academy of Family Physicians
801-557-1532, martindalemm@utahafp.org