Human trafficking remains a complex crime and public health concern that often intersects with healthcare systems. Healthcare—especially emergency departments—may be one of the few safe places where individuals experiencing trafficking interact with professionals outside the control of traffickers. Effective collaboration between healthcare providers and law enforcement is critical to ensure victim safety, uphold patient rights, and support appropriate investigative responses. This training emphasizes a coordinated, trauma-informed approach to identifying and assisting adult victims of trafficking within healthcare settings. The presenter will explore how healthcare professionals and law enforcement can work together to support victims while respecting legal, ethical, and trauma-informed care principles. Participants will gain insight into the distinct yet complementary roles each discipline plays in responding to suspected trafficking situations in clinical environments. The training highlights several key aspects of effective collaboration. First, it reviews the roles and responsibilities of hospital staff—including screening, documentation, and patient-centered care—and law enforcement’s role in investigation and victim protection. Participants will examine trauma-informed principles that prioritize safety, trust, autonomy, and dignity during medical and investigative interactions. The training also addresses important legal and ethical considerations, such as confidentiality, patient consent, and appropriate information sharing. Through a hospital-based case scenario, participants will discuss practical strategies for coordinated response, communication, and referrals. Participants are encouraged to strengthen local partnerships by establishing communication protocols, identifying points of contact, and pursuing ongoing joint training opportunities. By building trust and clear coordination between healthcare and law enforcement, communities can improve identification, support survivor autonomy, and create safer, more effective responses to human trafficking.
Trigger Warning: This presentation contains information (written, spoken, or visual) that may be triggering or (re)traumatizing to attendees.
Amanda Stylianou is a nationally recognized leader in anti-violence work. She serves as Chief Executive Officer of HEAL Trafficking, bringing a decade of nonprofit leadership across Safe Horizon, Rutgers Health, and Easterseals. Her work advances multidisciplinary responses supporting survivors of human trafficking and violence through research, policy, and practice innovation.