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Domestic violence is more prevalent than most people
realize.
More than one in three women treated in emergency departments
says they have experienced emotional and/or physical abuse during
their lifetimes, according to an article in the Journal of the American
Medical Association (JAMA). But now more attention is being given
to the problem and help is more visible.
In many area hospitals, domestic violence Healthcare
Advocacy Programs are being established. Last year, Rose Brooks
Center placed an advocate at Saint Joseph Health Center and now,
Hope House has an advocate at St. Mary's Hospital of Blue Springs
giving women access to immediate safety and support.
"We provide support on-site, 24 hours a day, seven
days a week," says Lauren Eisen, Hope House's advocate at St.
Mary's Hospital. "It's available to patients, visitors, employees;
anyone who comes in contact with the hospital."
Eisen says having advocates in hospitals has become
a city-wide program, involving the six domestic abuse shelters in
the area. "We are the second metro area in the country to have
this community-wide, cooperative effort. "It's very important
to be in hospitals because domestic violence is all about power
and control. Those who experience it are often isolated and don't
get out much. But eventually, everyone comes to a hospital. They
are most likely to seek out help after something happens-it's called
the open window phase, the period right after an explosive incident
when we're right there and can help, it can make all the difference."
Healthcare providers can be a front-line defense against
domestic violence by recognizing the signs of abuse, asking the
appropriate questions and connecting the patient to safety and other
supportive resources. The Healthcare Advocacy Program is confidential and
voluntary program. The goal to empower those experiencing domestic
violence to make their own decisions by providing knowledge and
other resources to break free from the violence in their lives.
For St. Mary's Hospital referrals or to contact the Hope House
Healthcare Advocacy Program, please call the Hope House Hotline
24 hours a day at 816-461-HOPE(4673). At Saint Joseph Health
Center, the Rose Brooks Bridge Advocate can be reached at 816-545-4700.
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