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In This Issue:
To the BWH Community,October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence is a serious publichealth issue that impacts patients and employees at BWH as well as our local and global communities. I ask that you take this opportunity to consider your role in responding to domestic violence.
As many of you are aware, domestic violence is defined as abuse in an intimate relationship. Abuse takes many forms, including physical and sexual violence, threats and a host of harmful behaviors intended to exert power and control in a relationship. Victims of abuse tend to be women, although men in same-sex relationships are abused at the same rates. Domestic violence occurs across an individual’s life-span and in all racial and ethnic groups, religions, and social classes. The health consequences of domestic violence are severe and long-term, including physical injuries, unwanted pregnancies, gynecological complications, sleep disturbances, migraines, depression, anxiety, and other symptoms of chronic stress and fear.
Given the implications on health and well-being, health care institutions are in a key position to make a difference in the lives of victims of abuse. Identification of abuse creates an opportunity to assist and support those affected. Screening for domestic violence as part of our routine care is a professional and ethical mandate.
I am pleased to learn about the work of many here at BWH in response to domestic violence. Passageway, in conjunction with the Office for Women, Family and Community Programs and the Department of Care Coordination, develops, supports and evaluates interventions that increase identification of domestic violence and improve our care of patients and employees. Also, working collaboratively with the Partners Employee Assistance Program, Passageway identifies and addresses workplace safety issues.
In the five years since it began, Passageway has responded to over 1500 individual requests for advocacy services. In the past year, advocates at Passageway have worked with 464 patients and employees, with nearly 6,203 service contacts.
A hospital-wide Domestic Violence Steering Committee comprised of senior clinicians and administrators is developing a strategic plan for future initiatives regarding training, service delivery enhancement, and the coordination of institutional responses throughout Partners HealthCare System.
We all have a role in mitigating this public health threat. Increasing collaboration is the best way we can strengthen our response to domestic violence. I urge you to be aware, screen for domestic violence and utilize the services of Passageway. I invite you to share your concerns and suggestions with me or the program’s director, Tina Nappi.
Sincerely,Gary L. Gottlieb, MD, MBABWH President