Small primary care practices are fundamental in providing medical and behavioral health services in California. They are often the sole providers in low-income areas where many are uninsured and underinsured. With limited resources, small practices are benefitting from creative and meaningful solutions to implementing new programs and screenings.

To support small practices in screening for ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and implementing trauma-informed care, PCDC’s small practice and trauma-informed care experts are offering a free six-part interactive webinar series. The series guide participants through screening for ACEs and implementing trauma-informed care from a small practice perspective.

Here are five reasons why small practices are perfectly positioned to address trauma:

Small practices are trusted in their neighborhoods.

Because of their strong relationships with patients and families, small practices are positioned to play a pivotal role in caring for communities from within. They have the perfect foundation upon which to begin screening and trauma-informed care.

Small practices have less bureaucracy.

Small practices bring benefits of less bureaucracy with fewer limitations when introducing new programs. Their smaller, close-knit teams work together efficiently to improve practices. This increases the chances of successful implementation. It may also be easier to train clinical and non-clinical staff to build a trauma informed workforce in small practices. This is all crucial to provide trauma-informed care.

Small practice providers often reflect the ethnic and linguistic diversity of the communities they serve.

It is key for providers and staff to understand the communities they serve in order to meet their needs and establish a trusting relationship with patients. Small, community-rooted practices, when staffed by local professionals representative and committed to their communities, can be uniquely understanding of patient experiences.

Small practices are a source of safety in communities experiencing historical and chronic trauma.

Many small practices are located in communities poignantly impacted by  systemic racism, where residents experience both chronic and historical trauma combined with and contributing to poverty, barriers to accessing services, and an immense need for healing relationships with trusted community leaders. A visit with a trauma-informed community practice can help patients feel heard, empowered and safe – all valuable components individual and community health.

Small practices provide high quality care with lower average cost per patient.

Studies show that small practices provide high quality care, a greater level of personalization and responsiveness to patient needs with lower average cost per patient, and fewer hospitalizations. Small practices provide an overall personable experience. As small practices begin to incorporate trauma-informed practices, they are poised to make even more positive impacts on both their patients and the wider community.