Making universal trauma‐informed health care a reality: A pilot initiative to train future providers

Abstract

The medical field traditionally classifies “trauma” as acute physical injury, requiring immediate medical attention. Psychological trauma is a separate entity, traditionally viewed as under the purview of behavioral health. Although mental health providers have expertise in treating the consequences of psychological trauma, medical providers can also play a distinct role in addressing the impact of such trauma on patients' health. Medical providers often work in settings where patients with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, or other pathologies related to underlying trauma may first interact with the health care sector, such as a primary care clinic or an emergency room.