Family violence: Practical recommendations for physicians and the medical community

Abstract

This article presents some practical recommendations for physicians and the medical community to address the issue of family violence. Disclosure of abuse is a terrifying event in the life of a victim. Health care providers play a very important role in caring for victims of family violence since they are the very first persons whom victims would turn to for help. This gives the physician the opportunity to intervene effectively to prevent further harm or homicide. Educating oneself and colleagues towards the use of available community and national resources is one approach, which can be employed. Moreover, it is also important to read relevant books and articles, institute mandatory and frequent domestic violence training in the work setting and understand victim presentations. Another recommendation is to be willing to change individual and institutional practices. Routinizing inquiry about abuse, safety planning and taking part in Family Violence Coordinating Council and task force, round table discussion with physicians, making an accurate and legible documentation of the case, ensuring that the hospital has a domestic violence advocate or program, and integrating family violence into the curriculum were seen as beneficial strategies. Other measures discussed include initiating a comprehensive community education and developing the courage to envision the changes needed to end family violence.