A new study from Boston University reveals that a hospital-based program designed to support victims of gun and knife violence significantly reduces the chances that these individuals will be re-injured or engage in violent behavior themselves. The findings, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, highlight the effectiveness of the Violence Intervention Advocacy Program (VIAP) founded at Boston Medical Center (BMC).
Lead researcher Jonathan Jay, an associate professor at the BU School of Public Health, emphasized the potential of such programs to drive down gun violence rates across the United States. He stated, “If we invest more in hospital-based violence intervention programs, will that help cities get their gun violence levels down?” His research indicates that consistent engagement with VIAP can cut the risk of violence by up to 50 percent within two to three years following hospital discharge.
Program Impact and Support Services
The VIAP offers comprehensive support to survivors of gunshot and knife wounds, assisting with mental health services, family support, and practical needs such as housing and employment. The study examined over 1,300 patients aged 16 to 34 who were at high risk of violence. Notably, nearly half of the participants interacted with VIAP shortly after leaving the hospital. However, those who maintained regular contact with the program during the initial two months post-discharge experienced a dramatic reduction in violence risk.
As Lavon Anderson, VIAP’s housing coordinator, noted, “There’s an old saying that hurt people hurt people, and that really applies to the work we do.” The program aims to help individuals heal from trauma and stabilize their lives, ultimately steering them away from cycles of violence.
When patients with violent injuries are admitted to BMC, they meet with patient advocates who conduct needs assessments to identify issues that could hinder recovery. These advocates, many of whom have personal experience within the communities served by the program, focus on addressing safety, mental health, and housing stability. This tailored approach is crucial in supporting patients on their journey toward recovery.
Broader Implications and Future Support
The VIAP’s unique model, which includes a dedicated team of 13 staff members, stands out among hospital-based violence intervention programs. Unlike many others that restrict eligibility or require regular attendance, VIAP is accessible to any victim of violence treated at BMC, regardless of age or frequency of visits.
Jay’s research adds to a growing body of evidence that suggests community-level interventions can have a far-reaching positive impact. He explained, “When one person chooses not to feed into violence, hundreds of people can be affected—family members, peers, and the broader community.” This ripple effect underscores the importance of programs like VIAP, especially as traditional measures to curb gun violence, such as stricter safety laws, face obstacles in many states.
In 2023, the United States recorded nearly 47,000 gun-related deaths, underscoring the urgency of initiatives like VIAP. Jay expressed hope that the current findings will compel other hospitals to adopt similar programs, thereby expanding their reach and effectiveness.
Anderson remains optimistic about the future of the VIAP, stating, “I’m hopeful that Professor Jay’s findings will support the expansion of the program and further strengthen our work.” The study was supported by a Fund for a Safer Future grant and involved collaboration among researchers from several institutions, including the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, and the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
In conclusion, the research highlights the potential of hospital-based violence intervention programs to not only aid individual recovery but also to forge pathways toward safer communities. As cities consider investments in such initiatives, the evidence provided by this study could serve as a powerful tool for change.
