Illinois State Medical Society Offers Free Programs for Health Professionals to Address Human Trafficking Awareness
As January marks National Human Trafficking Awareness Month, the Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) is offering a free, two-part webinar series aimed at equipping physicians and other healthcare professionals with the tools to identify and support those individuals exploited by human trafficking.
The series, which is available on-demand, is designed to challenge stereotypes, clarify the various factors contributing to trafficking, and provide practical approaches for assisting survivors of both sex and labor trafficking.
Healthcare professionals are uniquely positioned to identify and assist trafficking victims due to their frontline access and trusted roles within the community. By offering these programs, ISMS aims to raise awareness and offer resources to professionals who may come across survivors in their care.
January 11 is recognized as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, and the month as a whole is dedicated to increasing awareness of trafficking, which affects millions globally. According to a 2017 survey of 127 human trafficking survivors, 69% reported having accessed healthcare services at some point during their exploitation. Of those, 85% sought treatment for injuries or illnesses related to their trafficking. Despite this, only 6% of healthcare workers reported having treated someone who was a victim of trafficking.
The two no cost on-demand programs, available 24/7, offer continuing medical education (CME) credits and are designed to help healthcare professionals recognize signs of trafficking, improve their response, and ensure proper support for survivors.
Human Trafficking: Identification and Response in a Healthcare Setting
Presented by Anna Pastor, Coordinator, Cook Co. Human Trafficking Task Force
Human Trafficking: Practical Approaches and Resources in a Healthcare Setting
Presented by Traci Kurtzer, M.D., Medical Director for Trauma Informed Care and Education, Northwestern Medicine
The programs are free to all healthcare professionals and the public.
