A/Prof. Simon Sawyer1, Dr Rory Marshall2
1Charles Sturt University, , Australia, 2University of Michigan, , USA
Biography:
Bio to come
Abstract:
“Providing half a service”: Paramedic perspectives on intimate partner violence care
Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a significant public health issue, with paramedics often the first healthcare contact for survivors. Despite this, no prior research has examined paramedic-specific perspectives on IPV in detail.
Aims: To examine paramedic perspectives on current practice when encountering patients experiencing IPV, and to identify challenges, solutions, and actionable improvements for paramedicine.
Methods: An interpretive description qualitative approach was used. Practising paramedics from Canada participated in focus groups exploring IPV from a practitioner perspective. De-identified transcripts were analysed using inductive pattern recognition to identify recurring challenges, solutions, and action items.
Results: Seventeen paramedics (41% women, 59% men; mean age 34±10 years) participated across four focus groups. Participants reported that, without clear clinical guidance, care provided to patients experiencing IPV did not meet their needs, describing it as “providing half a service”. Seven key challenges were identified: patient help-seeking barriers, paramedic disposition, confidence, education and training readiness, organisational guidance, service configuration, and interagency networks. These reflected both individual capability and system-level limitations. Participants identified practical solutions across all domains, including improved education and training, development of clear clinical and organisational guidance, service redesign, and strengthened interagency collaboration, supported by policy and infrastructure.
Conclusions: Significant gaps exist in how paramedics are supported to respond to IPV. Addressing these through targeted education, clear guidance, and improved system integration may enhance care for survivors and strengthen paramedic roles in linking patients to appropriate services.