IAHSS Releases New Guideline 05.12 Human Trafficking in Healthcare

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

IAHSS Releases New Guideline 05.12 Human Trafficking in Healthcare

August 2025                                                                                     Contact:

                                                                                                                Name: Virginia Petrancosta
                                                                                                                 Phone: 630-529-3913 x101
                                                                                                                 E-Mail: virginia@iahss.org

Healthcare organizations increasingly encounter individuals who are suspected victims of human trafficking. When these individuals present during their captivity, they pose unique and complex security challenges. Healthcare facilities must be prepared to identify victims, respond to their needs, and promote the safety of both the patient and others within the facility, especially when a trafficker may be present.

To support healthcare organizations in identifying and managing these risks, the IAHSS Council on Guidelines is proud to announce the release of Healthcare Security Industry Guideline 05.12: Human Trafficking in Healthcare. The new guideline is available here.

This guideline provides a clear definition of human trafficking, also known as trafficking in persons, as a crime involving the coercion of individuals to provide labor, services, or engage in commercial sex acts. Coercion may be physical or psychological, subtle or overt. Notably, the exploitation of a minor for commercial sex is considered human trafficking, regardless of the presence of force, fraud, or coercion.

Tony York, CHPA, CPP, Council on Guidelines Member and Executive Vice President of Healthcare for the Paladin Security Family of Companies, stated:

“Human trafficking is a hidden crisis that intersects with healthcare more often than many realize. This guideline is an important step forward in equipping security teams with the tools and awareness needed to identify victims and respond appropriately. It’s about protecting the most vulnerable while promoting the safety and integrity of our healthcare environments.”

The IAHSS Council on Guidelines is composed of volunteer members who are experienced healthcare security professionals and leaders. Each year, the Council develops new healthcare security industry guidelines and reviews existing ones on a three-year cycle to ensure relevance and effective.

About IAHSS

The International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) is the only organization exclusively focused to professionals who lead security and safety programs in healthcare facilities. With over 4,000 members worldwide, IAHSS brings together experts healthcare security, law enforcement, safety, and emergency management.

For more than fifty-six years, IAHSS has supported the field through industry guidelines, educational and networking opportunities, and its biannual Journal of Healthcare Protection Management.

IAHSS has certified tens of thousands of professionals through its Basic, Advanced, Supervisor, and Safety Certificate programs. It also offers the Certified Healthcare Protection Administrator designation, widely recognized as the gold standard for leadership in healthcare security.

Through its commitment to professional development and industry advancement, IAHSS continues to elevate the role of healthcare security professionals and promote safer environments for patients, staff, and visitors.