The Role of the Medical Sector in Victim Protection and Early Intervention in Intimate Partner Violence

Intimate partner violence (IPV) constitutes a major public health and human rights issue with profound physical, psychological, and social consequences for individuals and societies worldwide. Extensive research demonstrates that IPV contributes significantly to morbidity, mortality, and long-term health inequalities across populations. The medical sector occupies a critical frontline position in victim protection and early intervention, as healthcare professionals are often the first formal point of contact for individuals experiencing violence. This paper examines the role of the medical sector in victim protection and early intervention in cases of intimate partner violence, integrating empirical findings from the EU-funded VIPROM (Victim Protection in Medicine) project with established international research and policy frameworks. By analysing stakeholder needs, institutional challenges, and innovative training and capacity-building models, the paper highlights persistent gaps in medical responses to IPV as well as promising strategies for improvement. The findings underscore the importance of societal awareness, trauma-informed care, early identification in healthcare settings, interdisciplinary cooperation, and the sustainable integration of domestic violence training into medical education. Strengthening the capacity of the medical sector is essential for preventing further victimisation, improving long-term health outcomes, and advancing broader public health and human rights objectives.