Victoria’s most well-known emergency physician has welcomed a proposal to station public service officers at several hospitals, but says it will “be a disaster” if they’re not properly trained.

There is real concern about the level of violence and aggression from patients and visitors in Victoria’s emergency departments.

Dr Stephen Parnis told Neil Mitchell if properly trained, PSOs could be of great assistance.

“If they’re properly trained is the key – absolutely,” he said.

Press PLAY below to hear him explain what that would require

He said the officers needed to be trained under the health care model, not law and order.

Dr Parnis said they should not carry weapons.

“I think it would be a disaster,” he said.

But the Police Association told 3AW Mornings it would expect the officers to be armed.