Abstract
Healthcare providers should include domestic violence questioning in all annual patient encounters as well as in those patient encounters that trigger this questioning. Repeated “accidents,” areas of bruising scattered throughout the patient’s body in various stages of healing, and an over-possessive partner who comes to every medical visit can be red flags for abuse. Although some populations are more at risk for abuse, including the pregnant, elder, and transgender populations, all patients, including males, should be questioned. Adult abuse patients can determine if they want definitive action taken within the criminal and legal system. For children in which there is reported abuse or there is suspected abuse, reporting is mandatory. Abuse not only affects the physical and mental health of the individual but also can lead to more serious medical morbidity and mortality consequences.