Full Schedule

Commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) includes the trafficking of minors in sexual acts in exchange for something of value such as food, housing, money, drugs, or alcohol. The average age of entry into this industry is 12 to 16 years old and many of these children come from vulnerable backgrounds including a history of sexual/physical abuse, drug/alcohol abuse, unstable housing and/or violence at home. As many as 88% of victims are seen by a medical provider at some point while they are being trafficked; however, the majority of providers are not trained to recognize potential victims and are unfamiliar with how the medical team and institution can provide immediate and long-term care for these victims. In addition, the COVID pandemic has exacerbated vulnerability and increased the risk for human trafficking. Physicians must therefore be trained to recognize victims, as well as understand how to care for victims, how to approach safe discharge and what resources can be used for multi-disciplinary management.

Using case-based and team-based learning techniques, participants in this workshop will be introduced to clinical scenarios of victims of trafficking and exploitation when they present to the healthcare system. Through interactive small and large group discussions, participants will first learn the key steps in identifying and caring for these victims: 1) recognition of potential indicators of victims of trafficking and exploitation, 2) trauma-informed care approach to management, 3) important discharge planning strategies, and 4) applicable policies and resources. The audience will then learn about potential hospital-wide interventions such as policies and protocols that can be implemented in their institution to improve victim identification, management, and prevention. Finally, they will gain a deeper understanding about key policy and legal protections for which they can advocate in their communities. The diverse backgrounds and experiences of those who work with this vulnerable population including workshop facilitators and audience members will provide a breadth of insight into a complex issue during the workshop discussions. Participants will walk away from the workshop with a knowledge of best practices, common resources, and ideas for system changes that can be brought back to their home institution for wider recognition and important intervention for this vulnerable population.