For the 1.5 million women who are physically abused by their partners every year, the health care system is a primary resource for early intervention and an important avenue for reducing the incidence and severity of domestic abuse.
Domestic violence is a health care problem of epidemic proportions.
The majority of these visits are for treatment of injuries that were inflicted by the woman's intimate partner. In addition to the immediate trauma caused by abuse, domestic violence contributes to several serious health problems, including chronic pain, depression, hypertension, and substance abuse. Over the past decade, policy makers, advocates, and health care providers have begun to recognize that domestic violence is not only a serious criminal justice issue, but it is also a significant health problem that requires a comprehensive response. In Washington, Congress and the Clinton Administration are taking steps to end domestic violence by promoting preventive efforts in the health care, social service, and criminal justice systems. In 1994, the first Violence Against Women Act, was passed into law.