Can screening for domestic violence be introduced successfully in a sexual health clinic?

BACKGROUND: Domestic violence is reported frequently when Australian women are surveyed and is associated with poorer health outcomes on a variety of measures. Routine screening for domestic violence is a strategy designed to both prevent domestic violence and provide an opportunity for early intervention. METHODS: Following staff consultation and training, a 1-month pilot of routine screening for domestic violence (RSDV) of all female patients was conducted in a large sexual health clinic. RESULTS: Following the evaluation of this pilot, RSDV was introduced in 2003 for all new female patients. Of the 3244 women eligible for screening, 2893 (89%) were screened. Of these, 254 (8.8%) identified domestic violence. CONCLUSIONS: Routine screening for domestic violence is feasible in a sexual health clinic population. High screening rates were achieved and high rates of domestic violence were identified, providing an opportunity for intervention.