Addressing a Global Public Health Crisis: Human Trafficking Education in Medical Training

Human trafficking is a major global public health issue, affecting an estimated 27.6 million individuals through forced labor or sexual exploitation. Healthcare providers are uniquely positioned to identify victims, provide care, and connect survivors with resources, as approximately 90% of victims report accessing healthcare during their exploitation. However, education on trafficking remains limited across medical and allied health training. As a result, many providers report low knowledge, limited confidence, and uncertainty in responding to suspected cases. Evidence shows that targeted educational interventions – such as online modules, brief trainings, and interprofessional simulations with standardized patients – can significantly improve providers’ knowledge, confidence, and clinical skills. Trauma-informed care further strengthens these efforts by promoting patient-centered approaches that prioritize safety, trust, and empowerment. Survivors, students, and clinicians consistently emphasize the importance of foundational knowledge, trauma-informed communication, and clear referral pathways. Despite increasing awareness, human trafficking education, and its lack of standardization, is inconsistently integrated into healthcare professionals. Research supports the adoption of structured, survivor-informed training programs to ensure consistent competency among providers. Tools such as the Human Trafficking Curriculum Assessment Tool offer guidance for implementation, while simulation-based learning enhances practical skills and clinical decision-making. Expanding and standardizing education is essential to improving identification, response, and outcomes for trafficking survivors.