ED Policies Protecting Survivors of Violence: Q&A with Prashasti Bhatnagar, Esq, MPH
- Examining law enforcement present in teh emergency department (ED) and collecting anecdotal evidence from hospital staff and patients has allowed researchers to suggest formalized improvements that cater to...
- The presence of law enforcement within hospital emergency departments (EDs) is increasingly scrutinized for its potential impact on survivors of violence and marginalized communities, raising concerns about access...
- The CDC defines violence as a public health problem, and emergency departments are frequently enough the frist point of contact for victims.The presence of law enforcement in EDs...
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Examining law enforcement present in teh emergency department (ED) and collecting anecdotal evidence from hospital staff and patients has allowed researchers to suggest formalized improvements that cater to the needs of patients, specifically those who are survivors of violence.1
The presence of law enforcement within hospital emergency departments (EDs) is increasingly scrutinized for its potential impact on survivors of violence and marginalized communities, raising concerns about access to care and reporting of crimes.This is particularly relevant for victims of domestic violence,sexual assault,and other interpersonal violence.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Law Enforcement in Emergency Departments
Table of Contents
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Law Enforcement in Emergency Departments
- Office on Violence Against Women and Impact on Domestic Violence Survivors
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Programs
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and Impact on Reproductive Healthcare
The CDC defines violence as a public health problem, and emergency departments are frequently enough the frist point of contact for victims.The presence of law enforcement in EDs can deter individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities and those with existing distrust of police, from seeking medical attention.
Detail: The rationale for stationing law enforcement in EDs often centers on responding to violent incidents occurring *within* the hospital or addressing criminal activity. However,this practice can inadvertently create a barrier to care for victims of violence who fear involvement with the criminal justice system. This fear can be amplified for undocumented immigrants or individuals with outstanding warrants.
Example or Evidence: A 2023 study by the National Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems found that 28% of hospitals with dedicated police presence reported concerns about the impact on patient willingness to seek care. National Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems Report
Office on Violence Against Women and Impact on Domestic Violence Survivors
The presence of law enforcement in EDs can significantly impact survivors of domestic violence, potentially hindering their ability to safely disclose abuse and access support services.
Detail: Mandatory reporting laws, coupled with a law enforcement presence, can create a coercive habitat where survivors feel compelled to press charges even if they are not ready or desire to do so. This can undermine their agency and potentially escalate the risk of further harm. The Office on Violence Against Women emphasizes the importance of victim-centered approaches that prioritize safety and autonomy.
Example or Evidence: The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) advocates for trauma-informed care in healthcare settings, including minimizing law enforcement involvement in situations where a survivor does not wish to pursue criminal charges. National Coalition Against Domestic violence. A 2018 report by the Urban Institute highlighted that survivors experiencing fear of law enforcement were less likely to report domestic violence. Urban Institute Report
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Programs
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is increasingly supporting hospital-based violence intervention programs (HVIPs) as an option to traditional law enforcement responses in EDs.
Detail: HVIPs employ trained counselors and advocates to provide support, resources, and case management to victims of violence. These programs aim to address the root causes of violence and prevent retaliation, offering a more holistic and trauma-informed approach than solely relying on law enforcement. HHS recognizes the need to build trust between healthcare providers and communities affected by violence.
Example or Evidence: In March 2024, HHS announced $30 million in funding for HVIPs, demonstrating a commitment to expanding access to these services. HHS Press Release. Research indicates that HVIPs can reduce repeat victimization and improve patient outcomes. RAND Corporation Analysis of HVIPs
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and Impact on Reproductive Healthcare
The presence of law enforcement in EDs can disproportionately affect access to reproductive healthcare,particularly for individuals seeking care related to abortion or miscarriage.
Detail: Concerns exist that law enforcement presence may lead to increased scrutiny of patients seeking