Helping Victims of Abuse
Physicians can be the first line of defense for victims of abuse. They are often the first to notice the telltale signs—unexplained bumps, bruises, and breaks.
That’s why it’s especially important for physicians to learn how to approach and help victims of abuse, according to Gwendolyn Poles, DO.
“As health professionals, we definitely encounter people who are victims of domestic violence. If we aren’t informed about how to screen and aren’t comfortable with screening, then we will miss the opportunity to offer people information and assistance with their situation,” Poles said.
In her former position at the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare (DPW), Poles had the chance to educate other physicians about domestic violence.
“My awareness and interest in educating physicians about domestic violence increased once I became involved with the statewide initiative at DPW,” Poles said.
As part of the initiative, Poles helped prepare CME on the subject for the Pennsylvania Medical Society. The CME is available to all physicians, not just Society members.
Now a faculty member in the internal medicine residency program at PinnacleHealth and medical director of Kline Health Center, Poles tries to spread her message to a younger generation of physicians.
“Physicians are not as well prepared to help abuse victims as they should be but better prepared than when I went to medical school,” Poles said.
Last Updated: 11/20/2008