187 - Human Trafficking

Abstract

Human trafficking is an abusive and exploitative form of interpersonal violence and a global public health problem. The United States recognizes both labor trafficking and sex trafficking as “severe forms of trafficking in persons” punishable under federal and state laws. Human trafficking often involves the use of abusive and violent tactics, including forced substance use and psychological coercion, to entrap and exert control over trafficked persons, all of which have profound implications for survivors’ physical, reproductive, and mental health. Trafficked persons seek health care services during their exploitation for a wide range of health conditions and the emergency department is the most common access point for this patient population. Inquiry about forms of interpersonal violence, including trafficking, is fundamentally different from screening for medical issues. The goal of inquiry about trafficking is not disclosure; however, readiness to respond to a disclosure or identification of trafficking is key. Establishing multidisciplinary protocols inclusive of labor and sex trafficking allows emergency departments and their clinicians to respond to a trafficking disclosure in a safe, trauma-informed manner.