Northwest Hospital - Domestic Violence (DOVE) Program

What is it?

DOVE provides 24/7 crisis intervention to victims of domestic violence in the emergency department, complete documentation of physical and psychological injuries, referrals to community and legal resources, as well as follow-up case management, support groups and counseling. Staff includes crisis interventionists, a forensic nurse, case managers and a psychotherapist.

Who is it for?

Area victims of domestic violence.

Why do they do it?

The hospital’s service area has a high rate of domestic violence. In 2009 alone, nearly 1,600 incidents were reported to police.

Impact

DOVE has experienced a 20-fold increase in victims identified by hospital staff and local police: from 24 victims in 2004 to 536 victims in 2010. All DOVE clients are offered assistance to develop and implement a safety plan and are provided with forensic and medical records for court proceedings.

Contact: Audrey Bergin
DOVE Program Coordinator
Telephone: 410-496-7555
E-mail: abergin@lifebridgehealth.org