The Inquiry received conflicting reports over whether a mandatory reporting process between the police and the National Health Services (NHS) exists. The Criminal Investigations Division of the MoP insists there is a close relationship between the two organisations and that NHS report cases even where they have not been asked to by the victim. Not only did the Inquiry hear that no such reporting process exists but if it did, it has the potential to risk further harm to the victim if a complaint is raised without their consent. It is essential for any screening process to be clear to all staff and place the needs of the victim at the heart of the decision making process. In relation to the police that currently does not exist. Even if an effective screening process were in place for hospital workers to identify victims of family violence, it is of little use if there are no allied health services for them to be referred to. “I have worked in systems (overseas) where if I am suspicious of violence or they tell me there was I can refer them to a social worker who can explore whether it was a one off violent act or whether it is repetitive. As a clinician working here in Samoa one of the hardest things in identifying these issues is the hopeless and helpless feeling of ‘what do I do?’, ‘what can I do?’ and ‘where can I get help for these people who need it?’” Dr. Malama Tafunai, Inquiry public hearings The lack of allied health services is discussed in further detail below but it also became apparent to the Inquiry that the NHS and Ministry of Health (MoH) has failed to take advantage of the limited service providers who are currently operating in Samoa. “We have been trying to develop a relationship with MoH for years but they […] think we are not needed. However, we are trying to impress on them the need for follow-up help for families after suicide attempts. If we are told about attempts then we can provide that help.” Papali’i Carol Ah Chong, Fa’ataua Le Ola, Inquiry public hearings Whilst Government agencies should take great caution in ensuring certain standards when referring cases to outside agencies, there are currently few efforts to develop these types of relationships. This is despite them being necessary in building an effective referral system and meeting the ongoing needs of victims of family violence. 9.2.3.2 Allied healthcare At the heart of any referral system, and an obvious pre-requisite, are allied healthcare services which diagnose and treat the causes and effects of family violence. Allied healthcare covers all health disciplines apart from doctors, nurses and dentists. In relation to family violence, this includes social workers, counselors, psychologists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists. In Samoa these services barely exist.