Investing In Safety: Reimbursing Safe Firearm Storage Counseling
Health Affairs December 9, 2024
“As part of our routine pediatric safety counseling, we ask about firearm safety. Is your child ever near a firearm?”
Since 2019, firearm-related injuries have surpassed motor vehicle crashes as the leading cause of death for children across the United States. In response, many pediatricians have taken on the role of educating families on secure firearm storage. Despite this alarming trend and clear guidance set forth by major medical societies, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, only a small portion—25 percent to 40 percent—of physicians regularly engage in counseling.
As physicians committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of children from preventable injuries, we need to work collectively to take up this call.
Thankfully, there is momentum for us...