Medical Safe Haven

The impact of the Medical Safe Haven program resonates deeply within the healthcare community. Read what leading physicians and dedicated residents have to say about the transformative power of our education, training and the compassionate care we strive to provide. 

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“The physician education, training, and development of a Medical Safe Haven, piloted at Methodist Hospital of Sacramento Dignity Health Family Medicine Residency Program, has been conceptualized and implemented with incredible success. We hope to spread the concept to residency clinics throughout the country and standardize human trafficking victim and survivor care in physician education and training across the country. It is a viable solution with the potential to synergistically provide widespread healthcare that coincides with training the physicians of tomorrow to recognize and treat this vulnerable patient population. ”  

    – Ron Chambers, MD, FAAFP

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“The Medical Safe Haven Clinic promotes a level of compassion, empathy, and holistic care we did not know was possible but now live out every day. I am honored to take part in this work. ”
    – Reagan Summers, MD

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“A few months ago, if that same 17 year old girl sat in front of me, I can guarantee you that I would have been exasperated by her indifference. How many times have I internally posed the question, “If you’re not going to talk to me or listen to anything I say, why are you here?” Our program’s efforts in educating residents about the challenges these young men and women face has deeply transformed how I see the patient in front of me, whether they are a victim of human trafficking or not. It has taught me to ask the hard questions, to lean into my own discomfort for the sake of hearing this person’s story. It has taught me to look and listen for what is really happening, understanding that the ‘poor historian’ may be so severely traumatized that they are not capable of stringing together events in time. It has taught me to be patient with silence. To say that I have benefitted from this training is an understatement. It is a privilege. It is humbling. It makes me a better family doctor.”
    – Sarah Chaffin, MD, Resident Physician

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"As President and CEO of the Arizona Anti-Trafficking Network (AATN) and as a former police chief, I have witnessed firsthand the difference Dignity Health’s Medical Safe Haven (MSH) makes in the lives of those recovering from human trafficking. It is the only medical program of its kind in Arizona dedicated specifically to serving survivors, and its impact extends beyond medical care. The team’s trauma-informed approach, deep compassion and respect for survivors reflect what community partnership can achieve.

MSH stands as a model of holistic recovery, uniting healthcare professionals, advocates and law enforcement in a collaborative mission to restore dignity and trust to those who have endured trauma. At AATN, we are honored to work alongside Dignity Health and many dedicated partners who share our commitment to helping survivors not only find safety, but truly heal and rebuild their lives."
    – John Meza, President and CEO, Arizona Anti-Trafficking Network, AATN.org

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“One woman we brought to Mercy Family Health Center had a history of 25 pimps and childhood sexual abuse. She was fearful of doctors and had never had a health exam. While she was in our housing program, she grew in ways she had never dreamed of, and then in the process of breaking free from all substance abuse she emotionally began to unravel. We were immediately able to get her into Mercy Family Health Center where the team spent two hours with her, and over the next two months would call and check on her. She was treated with kindness, medical expertise and the care needed to transition from crisis to stabilization. This intervention saved her life!”
    – Rachelle, City of Refuge

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“I was privileged to witness firsthand the remarkable work of Mercy Family Health Center. They have been a blessing to the women we serve. Women who have never received such compassionate and understanding care can now trust and believe in the medical system because of this team. We are grateful and will continue to bring our women to the clinic for care and love.”
    – Sawan, Community Against Sexual Harm (CASH)

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“We sincerely appreciate Dr. Chamber’s commitment to women who have been sex-trafficked. Because he and his staff understand the women we serve, they are able to address the health and wellness issues that are often missed or not easily discussed by our clients. The women we serve are enjoying success, instead of constant struggle, because of the work of his team.“
    – Terri Galvan, Community Against Sexual Harm (CASH)

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“Our client received a framed photo of her and her newborn baby as a gift from the Mercy Family Health Center. It meant so much; it is the little things, the consistency and follow-through that has helped shape this relationship and overall experience!“
    – Timiza Wash, M.Ed, Anti-Trafficking Program Manager, WEAVE™

Our Medical Safe Haven team is a collective of dedicated professionals, each bringing extensive experience and a shared, unwavering commitment to our mission. Get to know the individuals leading the way.

Ron Chambers, MD, MBA, FAAFP
Medical Director, Medical Safe Haven
Program Director, DIO, FM Residency Program, Methodist Hospital of Sacramento

Eric Barkyoumb
System Director, Medical Safe Haven

Laura Beas-Mejia
Program Manager, Medical Safe Haven

Gigi Michaelsen
Program Specialist, Medical Safe Haven

Ritika Sharma
Administrative Assistant, Medical Safe Haven