Survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual assault often go to healthcare settings for help. Without appropriate training, healthcare staff may miss opportunities to support. Improving health and human services for survivors is a priority of Shared Safety.

The Intersection of Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Assault Conference

Shared Safety’s organization members HIAS PA and PSARC proposed a conference to train healthcare professionals. A multi-agency working group supported with planning and promotion. The CHOP Center for Violence Prevention provided space at the Roberts Center for Pediatric Research. Shared Safety hosted the Intersection of Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Assault Conference in August 2024. 

Local experts trained over 60 healthcare professionals during this full-day, in-person conference. Attendees learned best practices for serving survivors in a range of healthcare settings. Professionals can now watch presentations from this conference on the state-wide TRAIN Learning Network. Even more exciting, TRAIN provides free continuing learning credits! 

Watch and Learn from Conference Sessions

Register for a free account from TRAIN.org to watch these trainings:  

  1. The Hidden Price of IPV 
    • This presentation shares an overview of IPV and its impact on the healthcare system. 
    • Presented by Olivia Taduran, MPH (Lutheran Settlement House Bilingual Domestic Violence Program).  
  2. IPV Patient Skills in Pediatric Contexts  
    • This session covers best practices for working with survivors in pediatric care settings. 
    • Presented by Christine Forke, CRNP, PhD (CHOP), Ashlee Murray, MD, MPH (University of Pennsylvania), and India Azzinaro, BSW (Philadelphia DHS). Moderated by ChrisAnne Smith (Family Practice and Counseling Network).  
  3. IPV Patient Skills in Adult Contexts  
    • This session covers best practices for working with survivors in adult care settings. 
    • Presented by Allison Denman, MS, BSN, RN, SANE-A (PSARC), and Jessica Palardy, LSW (Lutheran Settlement House). Moderated by Sarah Pallivalapil-Karerat, LSW (BHTEN). 
  4. IPV, Immigrants, and Limited English Proficiency  
    • This presentation shares about cultural humility and competency, working with undocumented survivors and survivors with Limited English Proficiency, and legal resources for undocumented survivors. 
    • Presented by Lina Duiker, Esq. (HIAS PA), Natalia Ortiz-Torrent, MD, FAPA, FAPM, FPCP (Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine), Sara Fernandez-Marcote, LPC. Moderated by Darby Glenn, MPH (HIAS PA).  
  5. Forensic Examination Best Practices  
    • This presentation covers mandatory reporting, collection, care, and evidence preservation in forensic examination. 
    • Presented by Laura Sinko, PhD, MSHP, RN (Temple University Department of Nursing), Krista Schroeder, PhD, RN, CCRN (Temple University College of Public Health), and Jalla Atkins, RN, SANE-A, GFN-C, CEN, CPEN, TNCC (Jefferson Abington Hospital). Moderated by Sarah Janicki, MS, ODL (WOAR Philadelphia Center Against Sexual Violence). 
  6. IPV, Traumatic Brain Injury and Strangulation  
    • This presentation covers how concussions and strangulation can impact people experiencing intimate partner and sexual violence. 
    • Presented by Mae Reale, MA (Pennsylvania Coalition Against Domestic Violence) and Joseph Herres, DO, FACEP (Jefferson-Einstein Hospital). Moderated by Liz Pride, MPH (Office of Domestic Violence Strategies).  
  7. Profile of Immigrants in Philadelphia  
    • This session discusses data about the immigrant population in Philadelphia, PA, highlights policies that impact immigrants, and ways that professionals can help, support, and engage with this population. 
    • Presented by Amy Eusebio, MSW (Office of Immigrant Affairs).  

Connect with additional resources for health and human services professionals who serve survivors of IPV and sexual assault. 

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