It is estimated that between 20 and 30 percent of women and 7.5 percent of men in the United States have been physically and/or sexually abused by an intimate partner at some point in their adult lives. An estimated 818,000 elderly Americans were victims of domestic abuse in 1994. Children exposed to intimate partner violence (IPV) vary from an estimated 3.3 million to 10 million per year. The health care system plays an important role in identifying and preventing public health problems. Routine screening is a primary starting point, with focus on early identification of all victims of IPV whether or not symptoms are immediately apparent. IPV affects people of all races, ethnicities, classes, sexual and gender identities, religious affiliations, ages, immigration status, and abilities. Providers that should be trained on IPV include physicians, dentists, nurses, public health professionals, mental health professionals, and pre-hospital and emergency responders. Identification and response should occur in adult and pediatric primary care, family practice, family planning, school health settings, and dental care settings. Screening and initial response should be conducted by a health care provider that has been educated about the dynamics of IPV, trained how to ask about abuse, established a relationship with the patient, and has a clearly defined role in an emergency setting. Responses to intimate partner victims are most efficient and effective when coordinated in a multi-disciplinary manner and in collaboration with domestic violence advocates so that no single provider is responsible for the entire intervention. Guidelines include screening, health and safety assessment, interventions, documentation, and follow-up and continuity of care for victims. Provider compliance with IPV protocols increases significantly with administrative support, including adequate staffing and training time and by offering provider tools. 14 appendices, 62 references