Do Health Professionals Really See Trafficked Patients?

As a trainer for helping health professionals recognize, screen, and respond to trafficked individuals I often get the question, “really, when would a trafficked person go to the doctor or dentist? Aren’t they locked up or just in other countries.”  The answer is an overwhelming “NO!” 

Eighty percent of trafficked persons have reported going to a healthcare provider while in captivity.  Reports from survivors indicate that the clinicians they sought care from did not know how to recognize them as a trafficked person, judged them, or seemed apathetic. This could be for a variety of reasons. The professional:

·      lacks knowledge about human trafficking

·      has preconceived notions about how a trafficked person should look or act

·      has an inadequate understanding of trafficking laws

·      fears violating HIPAA laws

·      feels the individual is hostile or unresponsive

·      relies on stereotypes about prostitution or other behaviors

·      misidentifies the case

·      lacks knowledge on how to report or access help

The truth is that trafficked people often seem to have freedom to work or move freely about life. Behind the scenes, they are being forced or coerced.  The trafficker may be constantly monitoring their every move and/or threatening death or harm if rules are not followed.  Many trafficked persons are in what is called a “trauma bond” with their trafficker. This happens in abusive relationships when the abuser cycles through times of normalcy and gives the victim hope that “this time he/she will be different.”  Traffickers tend to prey on vulnerable individuals that are search of community, belonging, and love. This makes the trauma bond more effective.

With the numbers as high as 80% for contact with healthcare providers, we are perfectly positioned to make a difference. It is reported that only .2% of victims are rescued and only 1% of survivors recover from the trauma.  Imagine if every healthcare professional was armed with the knowledge to respond, what a difference this could make in recovery efforts. 

As healthcare providers, it our duty to report abuse of minors and to be support for those danger.  If you are in Texas, you are required to take human trafficking training every 2 years.  Several other states, including Michigan, also have a training requirement.  Take just a couple of hours of your time and learn the clinical signs, know how to screen, and how to follow through with a report.  A small amount of your time and attention could equate to saving someone’s life.

For training, go to Inspired Education CE.  Learn how you can train in person or through a self-study course.  All courses are approved by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission in accordance with House Bill 2059, 86th Session, 2019 and will satisfy training requirements for ALL Texas healthcare providers.  CE is awarded to dental professionals and mental health professionals under BHEC. 

Contact Kandice at kandice@inspirededucationce.com with any questions. Kandice is a registered dental hygienist and licensed professional counselor and the trainer Harris County Resources for Children and Adults.