Implementing a hospital-based violence intervention program for assault-injured youth: implications for social work...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Work
• Trauma-Informed Care

Background:

• Youth in the U.S. face high rates of assault-related injuries with lasting physical, psychological, and social consequences.
• Hospital-based violence intervention programs (HVIPs) aim to reduce violent injury incidence among young people.
• HVIPs integrate medical staff and community partners to deliver trauma-informed care, proving cost-effective in reducing re-injury and improving health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand organizational and community factors influencing HVIP implementation.
• To explore stakeholder perspectives on the challenges and successes of HVIPs.
• To identify key elements for effective HVIP delivery to violently injured youth.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews with 41 stakeholders involved in HVIPs.
• Thematic analysis of interview data to identify implementation factors.
• In-depth exploration of perspectives on program effectiveness and challenges.

Main Results:

• Three key themes emerged: the necessity of integrated, collaborative care.
• The need for versatile providers capable of multiple service roles and diverse skills.
• The importance of engaging clients through sustained, extended contact for program success.

Conclusions:

• Effective HVIP implementation relies on integrated care models and adaptable providers.
• Extended client engagement is crucial for positive social and behavioral health outcomes.
• Findings offer insights for healthcare social work practice in violence intervention.