Strategies for Clinic Administrators and Staff

Successful implementation of trauma-informed care is an ongoing process and must occur across many levels, including at the clinic and/or organizational level. Trauma-informed organizations acknowledge the principles of safety, trust, collaboration, choice, peer support, and sociocultural issues and focus on the relationships between staff, patients/clients, and organizations. Current research, theory, and practice from the broader literature on trauma-informed care can guide administrators and staff who work within reproductive endocrinology and infertility settings to implement trauma-informed care. The clinic and/or organization’s mission and vision, policies, and procedures should be developed with consideration for trauma-informed care. Additional factors to consider include building and supporting the staff team, encouraging health and well-being among patients/clients and staff alike, and creating a physical environment that promotes both physical and psychological safety. Administrators should ensure ongoing training on both trauma-informed care and vicarious trauma-informed care for all staff. Administrators should also lead efforts ensuring that the clinic is appropriately acknowledging, preventing, and addressing vicarious trauma experienced by staff.