Healthcare Providers Play a Critical Role in Addressing Human Trafficking

Human trafficking is a form of modern slavery in which individuals are exploited for labor or sex through force, fraud or coercion. This pervasive public health issue fuels a global industry estimated to generate over $150+ billion annually and ensnares more than 27 million people worldwide. 

Studies have found that in the United States between 50% and 88% of human trafficking victims access healthcare services while being exploited. Many seek help at emergency departments, while others visit reproductive health clinics or mental health or substance abuse treatment facilities. Victims may present with a range of issues, from injuries resulting from physical or sexual assault and sexually or non-sexually transmitted infections to pregnancy-related complications, depression, suicidal ideation, substance misuse and post-traumatic stress disorder.  

A Call to Action 

Healthcare professionals across every region of the United States have reported cases of human trafficking, even though many lack the training to recognize its signs. Victims often fear authority figures and are hesitant to share personal information. It is therefore imperative for healthcare organizations to educate their staff on the risk factors and indicators of trafficking so they can intervene appropriately.  

Strategies for Healthcare Providers 

• Learn to Recognize Key Indicators: Familiarize yourself and your team with the physical, behavioral and environmental signs that may indicate human trafficking. 

• Educate Your Team: Provide staff with access to online courses, research articles, fact sheets and other resources focused on identifying and responding to human trafficking.  

• Establish Protocols: Develop and implement facility protocols for handling suspected trafficking cases and assisting victims. 

• Keep Current with Laws: Regularly review federal, state and local reporting requirements related to human trafficking. 

The U.S. Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 made human trafficking a federal crime. This legislation not only defines the conditions of human trafficking but also equips law enforcement and government officials with the necessary tools and authority to combat trafficking both domestically and worldwide. 

Key Indicators of Human Trafficking 

Although the FBI collects data on human trafficking, these statistics represent only the offenses known to law enforcement and likely understate the full extent of the problem. Between 2012 and 2022, there has been a noticeable increase in both investigations and prosecutions. For instance, referrals to U.S. attorneys rose from 1,519 in 2012 to 1,912 in 2022 – a 26% increase – while convictions grew from 578 to 1,118 during the same period.¹ 

Reporting and CME Requirements 

Healthcare providers treating potential trafficking victims must navigate a complex landscape of reporting laws that vary by state. While federal law does not require providers to report suspected human trafficking for patients aged 18 and over, those involved in federally funded programs must report suspected child abuse, including trafficking, when there is reason to suspect harm. Reporting requirements for adults differ by state and may not align with federal guidelines and failure to report can result in legal repercussions. Additionally, an increasing number of states are mandating continuing education on human trafficking for healthcare professionals. A summary of the federal and state reporting and education obligations can be found here.  

If you suspect a patient may be a victim of human trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888. Reporting does not require you to disclose identifiable patient health information and does not violate the HIPAA privacy rule.  

Resources for Healthcare Providers 

The Institute for Healthcare and Human Trafficking (IHHT) serves as a central resource for medical and behavioral health professionals seeking information on sex and labor trafficking affecting children and adults. IHHT offers a clearinghouse of resources, research and online and in-person training designed to aid in the prevention, identification, intervention and treatment of human trafficking. Additionally, organizations such as SOAR, HEAL Trafficking and Physicians Against the Trafficking of Humans (PATH) provide valuable training on recognizing and caring for trafficked patients. Other notable resources include Polaris and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness & Response. 

By understanding the signs of human trafficking and knowing how to respond, healthcare providers can offer critical support to victims and help prevent further exploitation. 

1 https://bjs.ojp.gov/library/publications/human-trafficking-data-collection-activities-2024