NJ A3470

Establishes a domestic violence prevention, education, and training program within the Department of Health to help health care providers identify and respond to patients who may be victims of domestic violence.

Requires the Commissioner of Health to develop educational programs for health care professionals covering causes and nature of domestic violence, risk factors, preventive measures, and available victim resources.

Mandates training for health care professionals on screening patients during medical examinations, conducting comprehensive evaluations to identify domestic violence indicators, and properly documenting findings in medical records.

Directs the commissioner to establish public-private partnerships to promote awareness among health care providers and community organizations, and to submit annual reports to the Governor and Legislature evaluating program effectiveness.

Takes effect on the first day of the fourth month following enactment; developed in consultation with the Advisory Council on Domestic Violence and the Domestic Violence Fatality and Near Fatality Review Board.