[Intimate partner violence a challenge for healthcare]

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pervasive public health problem and a human rights violation, affecting approximately 35% of women and 21% of men in Sweden. IPV is strongly associated with adverse health outcomes and often constitutes an underlying reason for health care visits. Despite this, many practitioners hesitate to address IPV, because of insufficient knowledge and lack of clear referral protocols. However, an increasing number of national and regional guidelines provide practical support for asking about IPV and making appropriate referrals. While healthcare professionals carry significant responsibility in responding to IPV, this is not a task we face alone. Numerous societal resources are available, including healthcare services, social services, and non-governmental organizations, all working to support individuals affected by IPV.