A Health Care Problem of Epidemic Proportions

A partnership aimed at addressing the devastating effects of domestic violence has received national recognition. Domestic violence is a crime and a tragedy. It is also a health care problem of epidemic proportions. In addition to the immediate trauma caused by abuse, domestic violence contributes to a number of chronic health problems. In an effort to further reduce the exacerbation of domestic violence and to address and prevent domestic violence through integrated models of service and systems-level improvements, a partnership was established between the Family Assistance Program, a non-profit organization, and the Hesperia Health Center, a Federally Qualified Health Center. This partnership received a grant in support of this work from the Blue Shield of California Foundation. Following a rigorous peer review process including 151 applicants, the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) has designated the Domestic Violence Health Care Partnership as a Promising Practice. The partnership’s adoption of policy and procedural changes has incorporated a trauma informed, culturally appropriate response to domestic violence. The selection of this program as a Promising Practice indicates that the program exhibits the potential for becoming a future Model Practice. As a Promising Practice, the program will be highlighted in NACCHO’s Model Practice Database, an online collection of local health department programs. The Domestic Violence Health Care Partnership supports the overall Countywide Vision by providing preventative primary care services for insured, uninsured and under-insured county residents and visitors in support of a healthy San Bernardino County.