Training helps caregivers recognize hidden signs of human trafficking

LOUISVILLE, Colo. — In early June, AdventHealth partnered with iEmpathize to host a multi-day human trafficking awareness and recognition training for healthcare professionals and community partners across the state.

In alignment with AdventHealth’s mission to be the preeminent healthcare organization and to extend the healing ministry of Christ, the event brought together a wide range of participants committed to better understanding this complex and often hidden public health issue.

The training engaged physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, behavioral health professionals, social workers, emergency services, leadership, non-clinical team members and more than 60 civilian leaders from the community.

In total, more than 150 healthcare providers, first responders, law enforcement partners and local organizations came together in a shared effort to strengthen awareness, build collaboration and better support vulnerable individuals.

“Healthcare professionals are often in a unique position to recognize signs that others may miss,” said Sherri McCoy, Provider Relations Advisor at AdventHealth Avista. “This training helps equip our teams with the awareness and tools needed to respond with compassion and confidence.”

Sherri also emphasized the importance of the training.

“80% of human trafficking victims encounter healthcare nine times while being trafficked, and less than 1% are identified,” McCoy said.

The Boulder County region showed especially strong engagement, representing approximately 50% of survey respondents.

That response reflects both the urgency of the issue and the value of bringing education into a broad, interdisciplinary setting where participants can learn from one another and build a more coordinated response.

As a nonprofit healthcare organization, AdventHealth views this initiative as an important community benefit investment.

Beyond education alone, the training supports whole-person, trauma-informed care and strengthens the organization’s ability to recognize and respond to potential victims of human trafficking with uncommon compassion.

Participant feedback also highlighted the need for continued education that is more practical and action-oriented, including advanced “2.0” training focused on reporting pathways and escalation, expanded virtual and on-campus options, and CME-accredited sessions for providers.

This partnership represents a meaningful step forward in AdventHealth’s ongoing commitment to community impact, collaboration and compassionate care.