ePoster
Talk Description
Institution: Westmead Hospital - NSW, Australia
Domestic violence (DV) results in injuries which can be severe and disfiguring, including facial fractures and burns. These injuries can have a profound effect on survivors' physical, psychological, and social wellbeing. While reconstructive surgery can significantly improve quality of life for these individuals, access to such care is frequently limited due to financial, systemic, and social barriers (1).
Plastic surgeons and other healthcare workers play a fundamental role in advocating for survivors of DV and in addressing the critical gap in their access to reconstructive surgery. Key advocacy focus areas include (2):
Policy reform: Advocating for expanded coverage in the public health system for reconstructive surgery for survivors of DV, recognising its role in restoring functionality and self-esteem.
Awareness campaigns: Educating healthcare providers and support organisations on the importance of plastic surgery as part of comprehensive survivor care.
Research: Conducting studies to quantify the unmet need for reconstructive surgery among survivors and measure its impact on recovery outcomes.
These focus areas emphasise the vital role of plastic surgeons in advocating for social justice and comprehensive patient care for survivors of DV.
References
1. Barr J, Mackie A, Gorelik D, Buckingham H, Clark D, Brissett AE. Health Disparities Research in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery: A Scoping Review. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. 2024 May 26.
2. Khetpal S, Lopez J, Redett RJ, Steinbacher DM. Health equity and healthcare disparities in plastic surgery: what we can do. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery. 2021 Dec 1;74(12):3251-9.
Presenters
Authors
Authors
Dr Emily Kane -