Michigan State University’s (MSU) College of Nursing has taken a step toward increasing reporting and minimizing human trafficking by creating a training program to teach students about this serious public health issue. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 943 human trafficking cases have been reported in the state of Michigan from 2007 to 2017. The Health Law Center has announced that human trafficking has reached an alarming level in the US.

MSU Professional Program Coordinator Kathy Forrest tells StateNews.com, “Human trafficking is very prevalent in the United States. It is a form of human slavery, human bondage. It’s a public health issue for the individuals who are being trafficked. It is often an underground activity that is spread by social media and affects the vulnerable among us.”

StateNews.com cites that 138 individuals in the MSU College of Nursing have completed the online course for human trafficking which requires professionals to take the training to get or renew a new license or registration. Professionals who are required to satisfy the trainings include nurses, counselors, physicians, social workers, and massage therapists. The training includes learning the types and venues of human trafficking in the US and in Michigan, how to identify victims in health care settings, how to identify warning signs, and what resources are available for reporting.

MSU Clinical Associate Professor of Osteopathic Specialties Alan Janssen wants to increase awareness of the public health issue and educate nurses and other healthcare professionals on how to address the problem. He also hopes that increased awareness will lead to better treatment resources.

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To learn more about MSU’s online course on human trafficking and steps to begin combatting this dangerous issue, visit here.

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