Enhancing emergency preparedness in health centers for addressing IPV, HT, and exploitation

Historical data show that crises exacerbate rates of IPV and HT/E. For instance, reports of abuse and trafficking surged during Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic. This 4-page educational brief outlines strategies for enhancing emergency preparedness in health centers (HCs), focusing on intimate partner violence (IPV), human trafficking (HT), and exploitation (E). By implementing improved protocols and strengthening community collaborations, HCs can better serve vulnerable populations during public health emergencies and natural disasters.

Health Centers (HCs) provide essential care to 32.5 million people annually, including those uninsured and impoverished. IPV is a prevalent issue with 1 in 2 women and 2 in 5 men report experiencing IPV in their lifetime—patients who experience IPV, HT, and E experience a range of adverse health issues. Emergencies increase the incidence as survivors face heightened isolation and reduced access to services, making it critical for HCs to strengthen their preparedness.