1. Domestic Violence and Health Care: The Current Climate Current Homicide Crisis: 22 incidents, 30 deaths (21 victims, 8 suicides), 5 serious injuries since 1/9/2010 Public Health Advisory – Governor Patrick 2008, result of increase in DV homicides in 2007 –DPH recommendations for routine screening for DV in all health care settings Increased severity/complexity of cases –More time with clients/providers safety planning and case assessment/intervention –6 referrals from ED in 3 days (very serious/high risk cases) –Strangulation disclosures: 14 in FY 2009; 61 in FY2010

2. Health Care Response Rationale Survivors are disproportionately represented in the health care setting. DV underlies many health and mental health issues. Health care is neutral setting; likely to see survivors in HC settings who may not seek services in community.

3. Health Care Responses Trauma informed care/compassionate care- giving Screening and Identification Environment of care (i.e. posters, cards) Validating/normalizing messages about abuse to all patients Risk Assessment and Safety Planning Referrals and Follow-up