A Comprehensive Training Approach to Human Trafficking in a Medical School and Teaching Hospital Program

Author: Alhajji, Lujain; Wyrick, Mykala; Holt, Nathalia Marie; Ortiz Diaz, Kevin; Potter, JoNell; Simms, Judith Seline; Sfakianaki, Anna Katerina & Kenny, Maureen

Abstract: Healthcare providers may interact with individuals who have experienced human trafficking (HT) but may not be trained in identification. This study evaluated the impact of a multi-pronged approach of providing training on HT to 165 medical staff and trainees to increase confidence in awareness, knowledge and identification of individuals who experienced HT. Prior to training, knowledge of HT was high as about half of the participants had previous exposure to information on HT. Self-reported confidence, knowledge, and comfort scores were significantly higher (p < .001) in post-test compared to pre-test evaluations. The UN Sustainability Goal 5.2: eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres is addressed in the current study which has implications for practice, policy, and continued research.

Keywords: human trafficking, health care provider education, medical education, trainees