Research on the Effects of Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Programs: Observations and Recommendations

Abstract

We conducted a review of studies on the effects of hospital-based violence intervention programs (HVIPs) on subsequent involvement in violence as a victim or perpetrator that included a nontreated control group. We identified seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and six observational studies. Most HVIPs evaluated relied principally on credible messengers to engage potential participants and intensive case management to provide social services. Evidence of linkage of HVIPs to community violence intervention programs was lacking. RCTs of the most robust HVIPs showed some evidence of protective effects, but overall evidence of reduced risks for violence was mixed. RCTs were underpowered, and all but one were vulnerable to selection bias. Stronger interventions and research methods are needed to advance our understanding of the potential for HVIPs to reduce risks for future violence.