Recognizing Human Trafficking

The crime of human trafficking, a modern form of slavery, involves exploiting a person for labor, services or commercial sex. Victims of human trafficking are of all ages, races, ethnicities, nationalities, religions, genders, sexual orientations, and economic backgrounds. Family members, partners, community leaders…anyone…can be a potential trafficker. Dental staff members are in a position to encounter and identify potential victims who seek dental treatment. As a dental assistant, you can combat human trafficking by becoming informed and by maintaining vigilance in your office.

Texas Legislature passed House Bill 2059 in 2020, which requires continuing education in human trafficking prevention for all health care practitioners who provide direct patient care, including dental assistants. This state-required course requirement must be achieved prior to license or registration renewal every two years. Courses taken to meet this requirement must be approved by the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). HHSC approved courses on this topic (some free, some for fee) can be found by clicking here.

Learn the subtle signs of victimization so you can offer appropriate treatment, resources and referrals…and possibly save a life!