Identifying and Responding to Human Trafficking

Recent research found that there are an estimated 313,000 victims of human trafficking in Texas alone. National estimates suggest that 87.8% of victims of human trafficking come in contact with healthcare providers. However, most tools to identify victims of human trafficking are designed for social service and clinical environments. Many of these tools require more time than feasible in an EMS setting due to the nature of the questions. Others require a strong rapport or previously developed client trust before the measure can be administered. None of the available instruments are appropriate for use in the EMS setting. This course will present a critical analysis of the current tools available, the latest findings from mixed-methods research on the development and validation of a tool for use by medical first responders, and a protocol to assist victims of human trafficking into the appropriate networks of care.