Treating Violence as a Disease
A UNIFIED FRONT AGAINST VIOLENCE
In recognition of Gun Violence Awareness Month, NYC Health + Hospitals is unifying its Hospital-based Violence Interruption Programs (HVIPs) to create a standardized, multidisciplinary approach to treating victims of violent trauma. The initiative, in partnership with city agencies like the DYCD, aims to break cycles of violence by treating it as a public health crisis. The unified model utilizes a three-pronged approach. It begins with interruption at the patient’s bedside, where violence interruption experts work to prevent retaliation. The second phase focuses on long-term prevention through mentorship, job programs, and educational opportunities for at-risk youth. Finally, community engagement builds trust and fosters peace through grassroots outreach and events. This comprehensive strategy provides a continuum of care that extends far beyond the
hospital walls.
to commemorate victims and promote healing.
Currently active at five city hospitals—including Lincoln, Kings County, and Harlem— the HVIP network will expand to Bellevue and Elmhurst, covering all six of the system’s Level 1 trauma centers. This summer, the programs will also launch a collaborative mural project with artists Sheena Vaughn and William Bentley
NYC Health + Hospitals President and CEO, Dr. Mitchell Katz, emphasized that this is a holistic public health response. “This effort is about more than stopping violence,” he stated. “It’s about building healthier communities, restoring trust, and ensuring every New Yorker has the opportunity to thrive.”
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LINCOLN NEWS
JUNE 2025
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