The HealthCARE Collaborative for Justice & BSAFE Evaluation: Participatory Research and Policy-Making to Guide Police Presence in Hospital Settings

• In Event: Research to Advance Community Safety: Bridging Within-Systems Change and Transformative Justice for Lasting Impact

Abstract

Objectives: Unclear policies on law enforcement presence in hospitals can lead to civil rights violations and erode trust in healthcare and legal systems, particularly for victims of violence (VOV). This study describes the HealthCARE Collaborative for Justice’s participatory policy-making process and CICS’s Bystander Support and Advocacy for Victims of Violence in the Emergency Department (BSAFE) training, to improve coordination between hospitals and law enforcement while ensuring equitable care for VOV.
Data/Methods: HCCJ convened 30+ violence intervention stakeholders to co-develop policies governing law enforcement interactions in emergency rooms, resulting in the development of BSAFE. BSAFE was piloted with trauma nurses at MWHC using pre- and post-training surveys, focus groups, and direct observations to assess training fidelity and its impact on law enforcement interactions with hospital staff and VOV in the hospital.
Results: This presentation will provide early insights into BSAFE’s impact on clinical practice and patient interactions. A toolkit will also be presented with model policies and training materials to support hospital-based intervention programs nationwide.
Conclusion: Clear policies and training programs enhance patient trust, safety, and adherence to civil rights protections. These initiatives offer a replicable framework for hospitals aiming to balance security with equitable care for VOV.

Authors

• Cassandra Ramdath, Center for Innovations in Community Safety (Georgetown Law)

• Lucia Mock, Center for Innovations in Community Safety (Georgetown Law)

• Tyler Bates, Center for Innovations in Community Safety (Georgetown Law)