Guide to Starting a Medical Outreach

Written by Christie Love

Trauma Training Takeaway: People who have experienced medical traumas or have felt dismissed or devalued by the medical system may be less likely to seek proper medical care when needed. “Medical trauma is defined as a set of psychological and physiological responses to pain, injury, serious illness, medical procedures and frightening treatment experiences.” (1)

A trauma-informed medical outreach can help to provide first aid and medical case management in a way that validates their fears and anxieties. Building a relationship with individuals through a medical outreach effort can also mean helping them to confront their fears by attending appointments, testing, and labs with them.

A trauma-informed medical outreach can also serve as a safe space for people to come to if they have been the victim of additional physical or sexual traumas. While you may have to help someone get more specialized care, you might be able to provide emotional support and a ministry of presence as people navigate their medical needs following a traumatic experience.

(1) “Medical Trauma.” ISTSS. Accessed April 25, 2024. https://istss.org/public-resources/friday-fast-facts/fast-facts-medical-trauma#:~:text=Fact%20Sheet%20For%20Professionals,procedures%20and%20frightening%20treatment%20experiences