A letter the editor from CHP Berkshires Associate Medical Director Dawn Kohanski, FNP, appeared in The Berkshire Eagle and other area publications in support of the Elizabeth Freeman Center’s work on behalf of survivors of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and trafficking. The letter also highlights the One Door Project collaboration between CHP and the Freeman Center. Here is the text version:
To the editor: The Elizabeth Freeman Center has begun its annual series of fundraising and public awareness walks around the Berkshires as part of its efforts to shine a spotlight on domestic violence, sexual abuse, and human trafficking.
These walks are necessary reminders of victimization in our community, but they provide another critical message: There is help. There is safety. You are not alone.
CHP Berkshires is proud and honored to have developed the One Door Project in collaboration with the Elizabeth Freeman Center. Through our partnership, we are training and educating CHP healthcare providers and staff to learn and understand signs of abuse, to invite conversation with our patients, and to offer immediate support and connection to the Freeman Center for those who are ready.
Our One Door Project message to CHP patients living with abuse is that they are safe with us, that their medical visits are private and protected, that they have allies in the exam room, and that, if they wish, we can help.
Research has shown that people who disclose abuse to a healthcare provider are more likely to seek help and intervention. We are proud to partner with the Elizabeth Freeman Center to strengthen support, protection, and safety for people at risk.
Dawn Kohanski, Williamstown