From the Research
Human trafficking falls under the health equity improvement area of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI). Health equity focuses on addressing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among different populations, particularly those who are vulnerable or marginalized. Human trafficking victims represent one of the most vulnerable populations in healthcare, often experiencing severe physical and mental health consequences while facing significant barriers to accessing appropriate care. The IHI's health equity initiatives aim to identify and address systemic factors that create these disparities, including the unique challenges faced by trafficking victims who may be prevented from seeking care, fear identification, or experience discrimination when they do access healthcare services.
Key Considerations
- Human trafficking is a significant public health issue, affecting an estimated 25 million people globally, and is associated with a myriad of deleterious health outcomes 1.
- Trafficking victims often experience severe physical and mental health consequences, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety 2, 3.
- Healthcare providers working within the health equity framework focus on trauma-informed approaches, culturally sensitive care, and creating safe environments where trafficking victims can receive appropriate medical attention without fear of judgment or further harm 4.
Recommendations
- Healthcare providers should prioritize trauma-informed care and culturally sensitive approaches when interacting with human trafficking victims.
- The IHI's health equity initiatives should be implemented to address systemic factors that create disparities in healthcare access and outcomes for trafficking victims.
- Further research is needed to develop effective trauma-informed interventions that address the unique needs of human trafficking victims, including the impact of collective and structural elements on health and well-being 3.