The ACOG bulletin discusses each topic identified in the tool. Some questions may appear to be relevant only for low-income populations, but screening of all patients presenting for pregnancy evaluation or prenatal care is an important step. Asking these questions will highlight areas of concern and the physician can refer the patient for additional evaluation or intervention. Because of the sensitive nature of the screening, ACOG recommends that physicians make every effort to screen patients in private, especially when asking about domestic violence. Even then, women may not be comfortable discussing problems with a physician until a trusting relationship has been established.
Adolescents are most likely to be faced with such barriers.
Other problems include lack of transportation and day care and language difficulties. Referral to a social service agency may be helpful in these cases. The second question on the screening tool asks about frequent moves. A variety of problems may force a woman to move frequently. She may have financial difficulties and be unable to afford adequate housing.