Inspira Health Announces It Will Launch New Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Program This Summer

Inspira was the only new health systems to receive funding for the initiative as part of the New Jersey Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Program (NJHVIP)

Mullica Hill, NJ (July 06, 2023) – Inspira Health has launched its new hospital-based violence intervention program. The program was designed to enhance the delivery of clinical and behavioral health services to victims of gun violence, with the goals of breaking the cycle of repeat victimization and, ultimately, saving lives.

Inspira Health was the only new health system to receive funding for the initiative as part of the New Jersey Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Program (NJHVIP), which is now in its fourth year. Ten other health systems across New Jersey also participate in the NJHVIP. The program at Inspira will support trauma victims and their immediate families, in Gloucester and Cumberland counties, who have suffered injuries due to gunshots, stabbings or blunt trauma.

“The success of a hospital-based violence intervention program lies in its ability to reach victims when they need it most - in the immediate aftermath of a violent incident,” said David Moore, assistant vice president for Behavioral Health Services, R.N., M.S.N., B.C. “From crisis intervention and conflict mediation to victim compensation and mental health and substance use interventions, whole teams of professionals will work to ensure that victims receive the care and support they need to start their healing process.”

Inspira has partnered with Life Worth Living, Acenda Integrated Health, Interrupt the Violence, local public health departments and county victim-support programs for this initiative. With a single referral, program staff will provide all those affected by the violence an opportunity to work with Acenda Integrated Health, Life Worth Living and other community partners.

“This collaboration is a great example of what we can do when we share our resources,” said John Fuqua, executive director of Life Worth Living. “Each role and discipline are vital in us finding success at a difficult time for our families and the community.”

“Acenda is proud to be a partner with Inspira and Life Worth Living in supporting our communities to reduce violence,” said Melissa Fox, chief operating officer for Acenda. “It is more important now than ever to ensure we as providers are not only aligned in our efforts, but are also solidifying a network of supports that are meaningful and impactful to the individuals we serve.”

According to New Jersey State Health Assessment Data, Cumberland county’s 2016 violent crime rate of 548.4 per 100,000 is 40 percent higher than the New Jersey average and 140 percent higher than the U.S average. The county’s homicide rate is 114 percent higher than the state average. The county also has a high domestic violence rate compared to both state and national averages. The 2016 rate was 1,717 (per 100,000), more than two times the state average and four times the national average.