The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #55790

Catherine H Hamilton, PhD, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont, New York University Robert F. Wagner School of Public Service, 1 East Road, Montpelier, VT 05601, 802-371-3625, hamiltonc@bcbsvt.com

Problem/Significance & Purpose: Results from a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont survey suggested that many clinicians lacked knowledge and tools to support women who present signs of domestic abuse. Two thirds of practitioners surveyed suggested that their offices were not equipped to adequately screen victims of domestic abuse, three quarters reported they were not equipped to document the signs of abuse for court records, and one half said they lacked up to date information on referral resources. The objectives of this project were to provide and test practical and effective tools that improve provider knowledge; core competencies and the quality of treatment for patients. In addition, the project was designed to reach out to patients who may be experiencing abuse with safety information.

Implementation: All primary care, emergency room and ob/gyn practitioners in the state of Vermont received a copy of the toolkit. Contents included a physician’s guide, a victim safety poster with a pocket of victim safety cards providing safety tips about leaving an abusive relationship and where seek support and help in getting free.

Evaluation: A comparison of means showed a 52% (.010) increase in clinicians’ ability to screen patient for abuse, a 43% increase in their ability to document the signs of abuse and a 30% increase in ability to refer to community-based support services. 96% of practitioners are satisfied with the tool kit and welcome the intervention as a practical, low cost tool to encourage behavior change and promote patient safety.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to:
• 1.Identify the elements of a toolkit for clinicians to improve their care to victims of domestic violence
• 2.Identify the types of primary care and emergency room clinicians to target for a violence prevention intervention
• 3.Estimate the costs and benefits of implementing a family violence prevention outreach program in health care settings
• 4.Develop a tool kit for clinicians to help them screen for signs of abuse, document signs of abuse, and assist victims of domestic violence.

Keywords: Domestic Violence, Violence Prevention

Related Web page: video on the project on bcbsvt.com

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont University of Vermont Department of Family Practice Vermont Network Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employed by BCBSVT Am not selling product, will provide tool kit in PDF for free