New Zealand Family Physician 30(4) August 2003 : 273-277

This article discusses problems associated with intimate partner abuse and the unrecognised health implications suffered by patients presenting to general practitioners (GPs). The article's intended audience is GPs, and it provides valuable advice and information on the recognition and management of partner abuse. The article informs GPs of available resources, such as protection orders, and legal support available under the Domestic Violence Act (1995). It reiterates the findings from a previous study that highlights that abused women often turn to doctors for understanding, information, and support when intimate partner abuse occurs, and argues that if doctors show no understanding or a lack of knowledge about intimate partner abuse, abused women will feel disempowered. The findings show that GPs need more training in order to provide the safety, privacy and support required. The article highlights the correlation between intimate partner abuse and child abuse. It points out the principles of safety intervention and the benefits of networking between GPs and supportive community resources. There is practical advice for GPs about how to identify and help women experiencing intimate partner abuse. It states that is important for GPs to be open to women patients experiencing domestic violence and to document any abuse for legal reasons. It argues that GPs may be in a position to recognise and respond early before a crisis occurs and, therefore, be able to encourage the appropriate management of this problem in general practice.