Firearm Injury Survivors Confront Ongoing Health Struggles

Survivors of firearm injuries frequently encounter long-lasting health issues that persist well beyond their initial trauma. A study conducted by researchers at Rutgers Health highlights the ongoing physical and functional health challenges faced by these individuals. The research, published in the Journal of Urban Health, examined the health care access and barriers experienced by firearm injury survivors, with the collaboration of street outreach workers from Cure4Camden, a community-based violence intervention program in Camden, New Jersey.

The study’s findings reveal that many survivors endure significant physical pain and functional disabilities. According to Daniel Semenza, director of research at the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center, “Survivors of firearm injury often face lasting pain, disability, and difficulties navigating the health care system long after the initial trauma.” The research utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative survey analysis with qualitative interviews, involving 107 firearm injury survivors and in-depth discussions with 15 individuals in partnership with violence interrupters from Cure4Camden.

Approximately two-thirds of the surveyed survivors reported experiencing at least a moderate amount of pain, which hindered their daily activities. Furthermore, 59% indicated they required a substantial level of medical treatment to manage their daily lives. The study uncovered prevalent functional disabilities among survivors, including cognitive difficulties (34%), vision challenges (26%), and ambulatory limitations (21%). Additionally, 25% reported issues with independent living.

Interviews conducted during the study provided deeper insights into the personal challenges survivors face, including disruptions to mobility, breathing capacity, and work ability. Many also reported psychological distress, such as anxiety, hypervigilance, and symptoms consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder. Semenza emphasized that “many survivors must manage complex medical needs while also confronting structural barriers like cost, transportation, and insurance gaps that limit access to care.”

The logistical burdens of navigating the health care system often fall on the survivors themselves. Community violence prevention specialists play a crucial role in assisting with appointment scheduling, prescription refills, and everyday tasks. More than half of the survivors surveyed reported a lack of access to free or low-cost care, while approximately 40% required dental or vision specialists. Alarmingly, one in four survivors did not have a primary care provider, highlighting the systemic issues within health care access.

Barriers such as financial constraints, insurance limitations, and transportation challenges frequently hinder access to necessary treatment. The difficulties surrounding referrals and follow-up care further exacerbate the situation. According to Semenza, “Community-based violence prevention specialists play a critical role in bridging the gap between survivors’ health needs and the fragmented systems meant to support them.”

This research sheds light on the profound and ongoing challenges faced by firearm injury survivors, emphasizing the need for improved access to health care and support services to address their complex needs. The findings call for a concerted effort to enhance the resources available to these individuals, ensuring they receive the comprehensive care necessary for their recovery and well-being.

For further details, refer to the study: Daniel C. Semenza et al, Physical Health Challenges, Healthcare Needs, and Barriers to Care among Firearm Injury Survivors: A Mixed Methods Analysis, Journal of Urban Health (2026). DOI: 10.1007/s11524-025-01049-9.