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Follow-up appointments

After disclosure of violence, the patient requires close follow-up.
Ensure that the patient leaves with a new appointment within short time.
Patients require close follow-up after disclosure of domestic violence. We must ensure that the patient leaves with an appointment to be reviewed within a short period of time.

Referral to other services and agencies depends on the patient’s need and the availability of local resources. Examples of relevant services and specialised agencies include:

  • Psycho-social support
  • Legal services
  • Advocacy
  • Child protection agency
  • Police
  • Psychological therapy
  • Women’s shelter
  • Domestic violence support organisation

Image showing fictional "Dr Marc" following up Marc is following up. Illustration: Roger Libesch

It is also crucial that the patient’s history and details of their case are documented carefully, as it may serve as evidence in any legal proceedings that the patient might want to undertake.

Next, we’ll see how the referral pathway works in the UK.

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Addressing Violence Through Patient Care

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