Addressing human trafficking in health care settings: Simulation and interprofessional education strategies

Author: Scannell, Meredith; Brandes, Rachel Ariel; Granville, Shay & Brady, Erin

Abstract: Human trafficking is a violation of human rights and a global public health crisis with many victims sustaining acute and long-term injuries as well as mental health disorders. Victims face multifaceted barriers to recovery, including restricted health care access, intense fear of retribution, and the profound psychological manipulation exerted by traffickers. However, most victims will seek health care services at some point during their captivity making health care professionals pivotal as “frontline” responders. Despite this critical role, a significant gap exists in professional preparedness. Many health care professionals have not received adequate education or specialized training to detect the indicators or to navigate the complexities of intervention. To bridge this gap, developing robust, evidence-based education programs is essential for all health care professionals. This article explores the necessity of targeted human trafficking training, with a specific focus on simulation-based education. Simulation offers a high-fidelity, low-risk environment where health care professionals can practice clinical identification, communication strategies, and interdisciplinary coordination. By mimicking real-world clinical encounters, simulation-based training empowers professionals to address the vast and complex needs survivors effectively. Also discussed are various simulation-based training programs, highlighting their efficacy in improving clinician confidence and patient outcomes in regards to victims of human trafficking.

Keywords: human trafficking, multidisciplinary care, simulation training, trauma-informed care