Healthcare screening for domestic abuse
Evidence-rated crime-reduction intervention (EMMIE).
Effect on crime
reduces crime
Evidence quality
very strong
Cost
moderate
What the evidence says
The intervention focuses on identifying women experiencing domestic abuse through screening in healthcare settings. Evidence from a systematic review suggests that universal screening increases the identification of domestic violence victims significantly. Despite variations in screening methods, the evidence highlighted the most effective identification occurs in antenatal and emergency settings. Further research is needed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of this approach.
How it works
Universal screening in healthcare settings aims to routinely ask women about their experiences of domestic abuse, increasing identification and access to support services, which may ultimately reduce the likelihood of ongoing abuse.
Implementation
Various screening methods were used across studies, ranging from direct questions by healthcare professionals to self-completed questionnaires. The effectiveness varied by both the technique used and healthcare setting.
Source: College of Policing Crime Reduction Toolkit (What Works Centre for Crime Reduction). Summarised 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the College of Policing.