RADAR
The Institute for Safe Families has developed a number of protocols for use in the identification and management of interpersonal violence (IPV) in the health care setting. These protocols are modeled on the RADAR mnemonic originally developed by the Massachusetts Medical Society.
RADAR for Women:
The original RADAR protocol was designed for use in screening female patients in traditional primary care or emergency medical settings. Our most updated version incorporates much that has been learned through research over the last 10 years, including an assessment of the patient's readiness to make changes to improve safety.
RADAR for Pediatrics:
Children who witness severe family conflict often experience problems in social-emotional functioning and delay in the acquisition of initial academic skills. It became evident through our work with the Philadelphia Department of Public Health that a visit with a pediatric healthcare provider is an opportune time to inquire of a mother about IPV in the home, and that asking about IPV fits into the pediatric safety and prevention assessment. This modification offers justification and explanation for IPV inquiry in the pediatric setting and scripts for providers willing to incorporate this behavior into their practice.
RADAR for Men:
It has become evident that targeting female victims of heterosexual domestic violence does not meet the needs of communities or families struggling with IPV, and does not sit entirely well with providers looking to do all they can in preventing further violence. Providers have asked us for language to use in asking and counseling their male patients about their involvement in IPV both as perpetrators and as victims.
