Navigating Conversations with Patients About Guns

Some providers may draw a strict boundary about discussing guns with their patients (or not think about it). But research has shown there are situations when access to firearms is a potential risk factor and raising this issue can be not only appropriate but necessary. Dr. Michael Victoroff, who is a firearms safety expert, addresses some scenarios associated with guns that can arise in the clinical setting. These range from imminent danger (e.g., suicide risk) to general considerations that vary from household to household (e.g., storage methods). Dr. Victoroff offers guidance on how to approach this topic with non-confrontational questions and suggestions for credible resources for healthcare providers.   Resources mentioned in this episode:  Suicide Prevention Resource Center CALM (Counseling on Access to Lethal Means) training https://www.sprc.org/resources-programs/calm-counseling-access-lethal-means Gun Shop Project - https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/means-matter/gun-shop-project/Colorado Firearm Safety Coalition- Coloradofirearmsafetycoaltion.org Suicide Hotline- 800-273-TALK National Shooting Sports Federation- NSFS.org   Feedback or episode ideas email the show at [email protected]: Information provided in this podcast should not be relied upon for personal, medical, legal, or financial decisions and you should consult an appropriate professional for specific advice that pertains to your situation. Health care providers should exercise their professional judgment in connection with the provision of healthcare services. The information contained in this podcast is not intended to be, nor is it, a substitute for medical diagnosis, treatment, advice, or judgment relative to a patient’s specific condition.