What is an Elder Protection Team?
One of the most successful models for addressing Elder abuse in Indian Country is utilized by the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs (CTWS) in Oregon. The CTWS-MDT representatives have served their tribal community since 1999 through a multidisciplinary team approach. This MDT provides assistance to their clients when coordinating with social service programs, health systems, and legal proceedings. The CTWS-MDT coordinates documentation, and evidence gathering efforts for legal procedures (civil and criminal cases), and assists in community crime prevention efforts.
The CTWS-MDT members include representatives from: The Senior Wellness Center, Tribal Police, Tribal Prosecutor’s Office, BIA/Tribal Social Services, Tribal Housing Authority, Indian Health Service (IHS), Community Health Representatives (CHR), Victims of Crimes Office, Assisted Living, and the Oregon Adult Protective Services.
