Project H.E.A.L. (health emergency assistance link): Challenges in sustainment of

Project Heal was implemented in 2004 in partnership with NYPD Domestic Violence Prevention Officers (DVPOs), Administration for Children Services, Mayor's Office to Combat Domestic Violence with Project H.E.A.L and the Criminal Justice System. Project Heal included use of forensic photography to monitor patient's condition and for batterer's conviction; staff education and communication with the judicial branches to ensure protection of victims and appropriate processing of batterers. Project Heal started in 2004 with 2,179 DV victims identified and provided treatment w/wrap-around services; 4,472 hospital staff trained in the identification and treatment of DV patients; 239 new digital photographs of injuries stored in the Digital Photographic Database, and 80 patients assisted with Order of Protection application. As of 2008 with continuous monitoring to ensure sustainment of the program, follow up of procedures, best practices and use of forensic photography, there are 1,810 DV victims seen and treated; 7,232 hospital staff trained, 450 digital photographs of injuries taken; and 90 Order of Protection application.

There is a definite positive correlation between sustainment of the Project Heal program and an increase in the number of domestic violence victims receiving appropriate treatment and wrap-around services.