Medico-legal considerations for GPs responding to family and domestic violence
Family and domestic violence (FDV) is a serious public health issue with long-lasting impacts on physical and mental health. GPs are uniquely positioned to identify and respond to FDV due to the trusted relationships they build with patients over time.
This WA Primary Health Alliance workshop for GPs supporting general practice staff will highlight the critical role of best practice documentation in clinical notes, helping to ensure that the experiences of those affected by FDV are properly recorded and supported.
With a panel discussion led by Sexual Assault Resource Centre, MDA National, Women’s Legal Service and the Police FDV Response Team. The panel will provide insights into the legal process alongside the medical process of responding to FDV.
The purpose of this session is to:
- Define the primary care FDV response pathway (from general practice through to WA police and the wider justice system).
- Explore best-practice evidence gathering and clinical documentation.
- Outline supports available for patients experiencing FDV and their GP
Presenters:
- Dr Anna Beswick, Senior Medical Practitioner, Clinical Forensic Medicine, Sexual Assault Resource Centre (WA Department of Health)
- Marnie Williams, Senior Supervising Lawyer, Women’s Legal Service
- Acting Sergeant Scott Turner, Armadale Family Violence Team (WA Police
- Nerissa Ferrie, Manager Advisory Services, MDA National Insurance
Breakfast will be provided
Email fdsv@wapha.org.au for more information.