Health Care Needs of the Sex Trafficking Patient

Caring for and identifying a victim of sex trafficking can be very challenging at times. Sex trafficking victims often don't see themselves as victims and often times are victimized by a boyfriend or relative. These patients can be non-compliant with treatments and difficult to provide follow up care. Often times the only time they are receiving medical care is when they are in the emergency department as many of these patients do not seek routine medical care through a family practioner. Forensic nurses are are able to identify potential sex trafficking victims and advocate them for their medical needs.