An estimated 14% and 28% of women seen in primary care clinics present with conditions directly and indirectly associated with violence or abuse. Despite recommendations for universal screening of women, only 10-20% of primary care providers provide VAAW screening. 

The purpose of this study was to examine the reported incidence of VAAW screening, treatment and outcomes of screening in primary care practices in three rural communities in Illinois, as well as to determine the providers’ perceived barriers and benefits to screening.  

A survey was sent to 167 primary care providers, including physicians, nurses, social workers, nurse midwives, public health clinics and an urgent care center. The survey asked the providers to estimate the incidence of VAAW in their practices, to describe their current screening practices, the types of abuse seen, and their methods for treatment and/or referral. The survey also asked providers to identify perceived barriers and benefits to screening. 

This study is now collecting preliminary data, with final data collection anticipated in late January. Analysis will be completed in February of 2007. This research will forward our understanding of providers’ willingness to screen for VAAW in rural communities. Assessments such as these are a step toward better understanding of what nursing can do to address VAAW in rural communities, both in the United States and in other rural areas of the world.