The American Academy of Neurology position statement on abuse and violence.

Neurology 2012;78:433–435 Neurologists see patients with neurologic disabilities that render them susceptible to abuse or neglect. They also encounter patients with neurologic dysfunction that may be either directly or indirectly related to maltreatment. In 2008, the American Medical Association (AMA) encouraged physicians to “routinely inquire about the family violence histories of their patients, as this knowledge is essential for effective diagnosis and care.”1 Consensus-based guidelines for identification of intimate partner violence (IPV) have been adopted by numerous medical specialty organizations.2–11 The US Department of Health and Human Services has recommended that women be screened and counseled for domestic abuse.12