Promoting Domestic Violence and Health Care Partnerships in Los Angeles
ABOUT
The Leadership Council for Domestic Violence and Health Care of Los Angeles (DVHCLA)—funded by Blue Shield of California Foundation—is a network comprised of leading health and domestic violence (DV) service providers in Los Angeles working together to:
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promote cross-sector collaboration to strengthen services and support for survivors;
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address and respond to trauma and the health impacts of violence; and
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break the cycle of domestic violence in Los Angeles County.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND HEALTH CARE
IN LOS ANGELES
High percentages of women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Yet, national statistics reveal only 25% of DV cases are reported.
Many survivors disclose these incidents to their healthcare providers when asked about their relationships.
In fact, a recent study found that 70% of patients want their healthcare providers to ask about their relationships and intimate partner violence.
From 2014-2017, Blue Shield of California Foundation (BSCF) funded the Domestic Violence and Health Care Partnership (DVHCP) project to better address the intersections of health and DSV, end domestic violence, and improve the health of Californians.
Through cross-training, trauma-informed responses, warm referrals and new policies, intentional partnerships are changing systems to provide comprehensive coordinated care, supporting survivor health and preventing violence in a way that is unprecedented.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
AND HEALTH CARE PARTNERSHIPS
THE LEADERSHIP COUNCIL
Committed to changing systems within their own organizations and across the region, four DVHCP sites developed the Leadership Council:
This cohort of leaders self-organized in 2017 to continue this work, disseminate DVHCP best practices, and promote DV and health care integration in Los Angeles County.
The Leadership Council collaborates with the Los Angeles County Domestic Violence Council Health Committee, under the Department of Public Health.