Page 19 - Winter 2024 Bulletin

Breaking the Cycle
How physicians can spot and assist potential victims
of sex trafficking in their office
Kyla Possinger, Executive Director Tampa Bay Integrated Healthcare Network, LLC kyla@ucipa-tbih.com
Human trafficking, particularly sex trafficking, is a pervasive issue in the U.S. and Florida is unfortunate- ly one of the leading states for this crime. In 2022 alone, Florida had over a thousand cases of human traf- ficking, with many victims going un- noticed despite accessing healthcare facilities. Nationally, an estimated 50,000 people are trafficked into the U.S. annually, with healthcare pro- viders often being the only profes- sionals to interact with victims while
they are still under the control of their traffickers.
Signs to Spot Potential Victims of Sex Trafficking: As a clinician, you are in a unique position to identify these vul- nerable individuals. Here are key indicators to look for dur- ing your patient encounters:
• Physical and Mental Health Signs: Unexplained injuries, untreated infections, malnutrition, signs of physical abuse, or STDs. Victims may also present with chronic anxiety, depression, fearfulness, or PTSD.
• Behavioral Red Flags: Patients may seem submis sive or fearful, avoid eye contact, and defer to a companion to speak on their behalf. They may not have possession of their own identification or health documents.
• Inconsistent Stories: Victims may give vague or contradictory answers about their living situation, work, or how they received their injuries.
• Signs of Control: A third party accompanying the patient insists on being present during examina tions or answering questions for them. The patient may be unaware of their current location or unable to provide a permanent address.
Steps to Keep the Patient Safe: If you suspect that a pa- tient is a victim of trafficking, it is crucial to act discreetly to avoid raising suspicion or further endangering the patient.
1. Separate the Patient from the Accompanying Individual: Find a reason to talk to the patient alone, perhaps during a procedure or while taking vital signs.
2. Ask Direct but Gentle Questions: Use non- threatening language to ask the patient about their work, living situation, and control over their personal documents.
3. Avoid Confronting the Suspected Trafficker: Alerting the trafficker that you are suspicious may put the victim in immediate danger.
4. Provide Resources and Help: If the patient is alone and expresses willingness, provide them with local or national resources discreetly, such as phone
numbers or hotline cards.
Who to Call and Report: If you believe a patient is a victim of trafficking:
• National Human Trafficking Hotline: Call 1-888-373-7888. This line provides immediate help for victims and guidance for healthcare providers.
• Local Law Enforcement: If the victim is in immediate danger, contact local police.
• Florida Department of Children and Families: In Florida, physicians are mandated reporters. You can report cases of child sex trafficking to DCF via the abuse hotline at 1-800-962-2873 or online at myflfamilies.com.
• Florida Coalition Against Human Trafficking (FCAHT): This statewide resource can offer guidance on reporting and local services. Stophumantrafficking.org, (727) 442-3064, FCAHTOFFICE@GMAIL.COM
Here are some useful resources to further educate your team and provide support for victims:
• HEAL Trafficking: healtrafficking.org offers resources, training, and best practices for healthcare
professionals.
• SOAR to Health and Wellness Training: acf.hhs.gov provides comprehensive training to help healthcare providers identify and respond to trafficking.
• National Human Trafficking Resource Center: humantraffickinghotline.org offers toolkits and guides for healthcare providers.
By being vigilant, discreet, and informed, providers can play a critical role in identifying and assisting victims of sex trafficking. Providing a safe space and access to resources may be the first step toward helping these individuals regain their freedom.
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HCMA BULLETIN, Vol 70, No. 3 – Winter 2024
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