Silent Cries: Recent Updates on Identifying and Reporting Child Abuse for NY Healthcare Professionals - 2 AOA Category 1-A Credits

At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Identify New York mandated reporter responsibilities and the “reasonable cause” threshold for reporting suspected child abuse or maltreatment.

2. Recognize common indicators of abuse and neglect, including emotional abuse and concerns identified in virtual or telehealth-adjacent interactions.

3. Assess how implicit bias can influence mandated reporting decisions in clinical scenarios.

4. Demonstrate objective documentation and correct reporting workflow for asuspected child abuse/maltreatment case.

Mandated reporters play a critical role in protecting children from abuse and maltreatment. In New York State, individuals in certain professions are required by law to report suspected cases of child abuse or maltreatment to the Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment (SCR). This training covers the legal responsibilities and ethical considerations associated with mandated reporting under New York State’s Social Services Law § 413, including amendments introduced by Chapter 56 of the Laws of 2021. The course provides an essential update on osteopathic physicians' legal obligations as mandated reporters. Osteopathic physicians will learn to confidently identify signs of abuse, including emotional and virtual abuse, in both in-person and virtual settings. This training will provide clearer definitions and guidance to streamline the reporting process and ensure protection for vulnerable children.