Policy recommendations for public health departments to prevent domestic and sexual violence

Domestic and sexual violence (DSV) are major public health concerns. Despite the high prevalence and significant health impacts, public health departments have lacked infrastructure, partnerships, clear roles and strategic direction regarding the prevention of DSV. Public health approaches to violence prevention are essential saving lives, saving money, and building thriving communities.

With funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Strengthening Public Health Infrastructure to Improve Health Outcomes cooperative agreement, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Public Health Division (PHD) conducted an assessment and environmental scan of DSV initiatives in the Oregon public health system, including 51 interviews with state, local, and Tribal public health staff and partners working to address and end DSV.

PHD selected recommendations, based on the Safe States Alliance 2011 report, Preventing Violence: Roles for Public Health Agencies, and devised action steps to build DSV infrastructure in the Oregon public health system and promote policy changes to prevent DSV. The recommendations include: 1) institutionalize visible, high-level leadership that prioritizes violence prevention; 2) develop, implement and coordinate a statewide agenda to prevent violence; 3) collect, analyze and disseminate data in collaboration with partners; and 4) build state and local capacity. Stakeholder interviews also provided insight into how public health departments could improve partnerships with community-based anti-violence advocates.

This session will discuss the critical role of public health departments in preventing DSV. The Oregon Public Health Division assessment results and recommendations will be presented as an example of how public health departments can elevate DSV as priority issues.