IFM | Firearm Injury Prevention in the Exam Room: A Conversation with Family Physicians

In this episode of Inside Family Medicine, James Bigham, MD, MPH, and Sanjay Batish, MD, discuss the family physician's role in preventing firearm injuries and addressing gun violence through relationship-based, upstream care. Bigham describes training clinicians in culturally aware counseling, secure firearm storage and collaboration with gun shop owners through and the nonprofit SAFE, or Scrubs Addressing the Firearm Epidemic, emphasizing a public health approach that uses population data, including that firearm injury is the leading cause of death among people ages 1 to 19. Batish explains how treating the long-term physical and mental health effects of firearm injuries led him into research, including an AAFP Foundation RapSDI pilot that tested a firearm safety score tool in nonurban primary care settings and found unexpectedly high risk. Both physicians recommend universal screening, nonjudgmental counseling focused on suicide risk, practical storage planning, community resources and clinician training tools.

Topics by Timestamp

00:00 Welcome and Guests

01:52 Why Family Medicine

02:39 Why Firearm Prevention Matters

05:40 Public Health Lens

07:04 RAPSODI Research Findings

09:23 Screening and Counseling Tips

11:36 Handling Discomfort

12:52 Stories and Blind Spots

17:53 Advice and Resources

21:19 Closing and Disclaimers

Additional Resources

Gun Violence, Prevention of (Position Paper) | AAFP

Prevention of Gun Violence (Policy Statement) | AAFP

https://www.aafp.org/news/blogs/aafp-voices/storage-conversations.html

https://aafp.libsyn.com/ifm-the-aafp-foundations-signature-research-program

Disclaimer: Copyright 2026, AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker's own and do not represent those of AAFP. The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice. The AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.