Investigating Physician Training, Knowledge, and Response to Human Trafficking at an Academic Medical Center in Texas

Author: Udezi, Victoria; Singh, Prachi; Malthaner, Lauren & Jetelina, Katelyn

Abstract: Health-care settings are critical for identifying and assisting persons who have experienced human trafficking. Studies estimate that victims have been cared for at multiple clinical sites, but the majority of victimization remains undetected due to lack of awareness, training, and time. This study examined physician human-trafficking knowledge, training, usual practice regarding response, and education modality preferences at an academic medical center. A 24-item survey was distributed to residents and faculty in family medicine, emergency medicine, psychiatry, pediatrics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and orthopedics. Univariate and bivariate analysis were used to measure associations, demographics, and training across human trafficking (HT) knowledge, training, and usual practice. Respondents were largely identified as female (71%) and trainees (68%). Most respondents specialized in family medicine (32%), pediatrics (30%), or emergency medicine (19%). Overall, 85% of participants agreed that recognizing HT is a physician’s responsibility, however only 31% felt comfortable discussing HT with patients. Knowledge of HT was generally higher among attendings compared to residents (p-value = .04). More than half of participants (60%) reported never receiving HT or trauma-informed care training, but most reported that standard training should include HT (86% agree or strongly agree). Sixty-four percent of clinicians reported a preference of training administered through webinars or during didactic sessions. Physicians across various training levels agree that recognizing HT is a key responsibility. Standard medical training should incorporate HT and trauma-informed care and address knowledge gaps in order to equip clinicians to better detect, treat, and refer victims for the care they need. This study supports progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goal 16 promoting just, peaceful and inclusive societies.

Keywords: violence prevention, community health, GME, trauma-informed care, human trafficking, health disparities