Systems change models build on research about effective behavior change and adult learning. A number of systems change models exist, generally involving the identification of areas in which change is needed, determining objectives for change, trying out approaches for achieving those changes, and testing the impact of those approaches. Such approaches are being applied to the issue of education and training for health professionals in the identification and management of family violence (Campbell et al., 2000; Thompson et al., 2000). The use of these initiatives may result in changes in health professionals’ knowledge and practices and the health outcomes of their patients.

• Healthplan Employer Data Information Set (HEDIS) measures for health care outcomes and the use of evidence-based practice may have potential for improving health professionals’ identification and care processes for family violence.

HEDIS measurement, in its short existence, has had profound effects on the behavior of health care delivery organizations and on practitioners. For example, managed care organizations have made major changes to meet new requirements and training health care personnel is part of this process. Currently, there are no HEDIS measures for family violence. The committee’s review of what is known about the health professional’s response to family violence at this time indicates insufficient evidence on which to base the development and adoption of HEDIS measures for family violence. Given the impact of HEDIS measures, however, the development of a standard set of measures for effective practice for family violence appears to have the potential to drive education, practice, and measurement changes for this issue. Evidence-based practice currently appears to be another strong and emerging force in health care professional education. The linkage between HEDIS measurement and evidence-based practice may increasingly drive the use of HEDIS or HEDIS-like measurement into the education of health care professionals.