Trauma Informed Care

Landmark research known as the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study has shown that exposure to abuse, neglect, discrimination, violence, and other adverse experiences in childhood increases a person’s lifelong potential for serious health problems. As health care providers grow aware of trauma’s impact and implications of ACE studies, they are realizing the value of trauma-informed approaches to care. Trauma-informed care means taking into account a patient’s life experiences so as to deliver care that may improve patient engagement, treatment adherence, and health outcomes. This approach is also designed to improve outcomes and health for providers themselves.³⁸

Developing trauma-informed care skills can be an important way to better recognize and respond to patients who may be victims of violence, including IPV and EM.