What is Human Trafficking?
Human trafficking occurs when an individual is forced, tricked, or manipulated to work. The Action-Means-Purpose Model can be used to help understand this definition better.
Why Should Health Care Providers Know About This Public Health Concern?
Because we see individuals who have experienced human trafficking! Studies have estimated that we have seen between 28-88% of individuals affected by trafficking during their encounter. By knowing what to look for, we can help identify those at risk of trafficking and individuals who have been affected by human trafficking. It’s important that we know how to use a trauma informed approach and to know our local resources.
How Can I Use A Trauma Informed Approach to Care?
The PEARR Tool can be used to assist providers with some practical guidelines when working with patients who may be experiencing complex trauma.
For The Full PEARR Tool Click Here
Where Can I Find Resources?
Emergency Advocate Support for Human Trafficking:
Chains Interrupted
https://www.chainsinterrupted.com/
Emergency Number: 319-536-2027
Non-Emergency Number: 319-364-0222
NISAA African Family Services
24 Hour Help Line: 1-844-269-6203
Other Lines:
319-338-7617
319-512-5662
*Offers Culturally and Linguistically Specific Services
Monsoon Asians and Pacific Islanders in Solidarity
Helpline: 1.866.881.4641
*Offers Culturally and Linguistically Specific Services
National Resources:
National Human Trafficking Hotline
Call: 1 (888) 373-7888
Text: 233733 (BeFree)
https://humantraffickinghotline.org/
Iowa Resources:
Iowa Victim Service Call Center
Call: 1-800-770-1650
Text: ‘IOWAHELP’ to 201-21
https://survivorshelpline.org/
*They keep a list of updated resources.
Network Against Human Trafficking
Hospital Resources:
Ask to talk with a social worker or call 319-356-2207
Please find the handout on the Point which includes information on statewide resources.
Must be at the hospital or using remote access to utilize link. Local and Iowa Resources
Professional Resources:
HEAL Trafficking
HEAL is the leading non-governmental authority on Human Trafficking as a health issue. Our approach is three-pronged. 1) We educate and empower health care providers to be prepared and able to respond to those who have experienced trafficking or are at risk. 2) We build the capacity of health systems to identify and support trafficked persons with approaches and policies designed to help survivors take the lead in accessing the services they need. 3) We advocate for public health approaches that are survivor-informed, evidence based, and prevention-oriented. Please join our network and commit to healing human trafficking!
SOAR Online
SOAR Online is jointly provided by the Postgraduate Institute for Medicine and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
https://www.acf.hhs.gov/otip/training/soar-health-and-wellness-training/soar-online
American Hospital Association
The American Hospital Association is a national organization that provides guidance on addressing human trafficking through the health care system.
https://www.aha.org/combating-human-trafficking