Objective: In 2015, we created a training program called BEAMS for medical institutions in Japan to combat child maltreatment. The objectives were to document the effectiveness of the program for members of multidisciplinary teams working in medical institutions, and to determine how training to prevent and manage child maltreatment or clinical experience in suspected child maltreatment cases affect knowledge of and attitudes toward child maltreatment. Methods: The questionnaire included demographic questions such years of practice and area of specialty, i.e. doctor, nurse, social worker, public health nurse, technician, and others (pharmacist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, dietitian, psychologist, childcare worker, teacher, and medical clerk), and experience with suspected child maltreatment cases and training for dealing with such cases. The questionnaire included 15 statements designed to ascertain practical knowledge and attitudes relevant to addressing child maltreatment. Participants selected “yes” or “no” for each statement, with the correct answer being decided on the basis of child welfare. We compared baseline scores determined before the lecture with those based on answers given after the lecture. Results: 760 participants completed the survey, including 227 doctors, 223 nurses, 37 technologists, 25 social workers, 11 public health nurses, and 210 with other occupations. There was a significant difference between the baseline scores of participants with versus without experience in suspected child maltreatment or training to deal with child maltreatment cases ( F: 22.9; P < 0.001). After the lectures, the score rose above the baseline (13.5 vs 12.7). The rate of correct answers for 11 questionnaire items increased significantly. Conclusion: The health care professional needs clinical skills and judgement to decide if a child’s injuries are due to maltreatment. The combination of increased clinical experiences along with a high-quality didactic lecture, appears to be the most effective method for raising the skills and awareness.
