In a groundbreaking development at the intersection of healthcare and law enforcement, a University of Florida (UF) College of Nursing DNP student's research project has resulted in the identification and rescue of human trafficking victims, as well as the arrest of suspected traffickers. This initiative highlights the crucial role that healthcare professionals can play in combating human trafficking when equipped with the right tools and training.

Collaboration Drives Innovation in Patient Screening

Katelyn Watts, a recent DNP nursing graduate at the University of Florida, spearheaded a research project that has had far-reaching implications beyond the realm of academic study. With guidance from UF College of Nursing faculty, Baptist Health, and EPIC Systems, Watts developed a screening template that integrates seamlessly into the EPIC electronic health record system, widely used in healthcare settings across the United States.

This innovative template allows healthcare workers to assess hospital patients for potential signs of human trafficking during routine care. The collaborative effort between academic institutions, healthcare providers, and technology companies demonstrates the power of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing complex societal issues.

Technology-Enabled Detection: How the Screening Tool Works

The screening tool developed by Watts is designed to work within the existing EPIC system, making it easily accessible to healthcare workers without requiring significant additional training or disruption to established workflows. As healthcare professionals enter patient information into the system, the template analyzes the data for specific indicators that may suggest a patient is a victim of human trafficking.

When certain criteria are met, the system raises flags, alerting healthcare workers to the possibility that they may be dealing with a trafficking victim. This early warning system enables medical staff to take appropriate action, such as notifying authorities or providing specialized support to the patient.

Results: Victims Rescued, Traffickers Arrested

The impact of this research project has been both immediate and significant. 

• During the project period, nurses using the new screening template were able to identify five victims of human trafficking, including children. This identification led to direct interventions that potentially saved these individuals from further exploitation.
• Moreover, the information gathered through this screening process contributed to law enforcement efforts, resulting in the arrest of three suspected traffickers in North Florida. This outcome emphasizes the vital link between healthcare providers and law enforcement in addressing human trafficking.

The success of this initiative demonstrates that healthcare settings can serve as critical points of intervention in identifying and assisting trafficking victims who may otherwise remain hidden from view.

This project serves as an inspiring example of how nursing students and professionals can drive meaningful change through research and innovation. It highlights the importance of supporting and encouraging such initiatives within nursing education and practice.