Connie Smith
Rape Crisis Centers

The purpose of the forensic medical exam is to assess a victim’s health care needs, coordinate treatment of any injuries and collect evidence for potential use during case investigation and prosecution.  Since the body is the crime scene, evidence is time-sensitive and may only be present until the victim bathes, washes and/or urinates.

An examination by a health care provider is recommended even if (1) there are no visible injuries as a result of the assault, (2) the victim does not wish to have evidence collected, or (3) the assault was not recent. In these cases, the victim may have injuries that are not apparent or acute or have related health concerns.

A forensic medical examination is performed by specially trained Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) for the purpose of evaluation and treatment of trauma, treatment of possible exposure to infection, referral to counseling and follow-up medical care, and for the collection of evidence following a report of sexual assault by a victim. The medical well-being of the patient is the primary objective of the SANE at all times during the examination.

Specifically, the forensic medical exam includes:

• Support and crisis intervention
• Information gathering from the victim for the forensic medical history
• An examination/medical assessment
• Coordination of treatment of injuries
• Documentation of biological and physical findings
• Collection of evidence from the victim’s body
• Information, treatment and/or referrals for sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy and other non-acute medical concerns
• Follow-up care as needed to facilitate additional healing, treatment or collection of evidence

When a child, teen, or adult experiences a personal violation of sexual harm, many thoughts and emotions run through one’s mind. The experience is complicated when the person who coerced or forced the encounter is known to or part of the victim’s family or social group.

Our Victim Advocates are safe to talk to and explore options. There is no judgment. Adults may choose to receive services without reporting to law enforcement.

We assist with:

24/7 Crisis Intervention and Emotional Support – 1-800-205-7037  
Our team of advocates provide direct and indirect support by phone or in person to victims and their non-offending caregivers/family members during a time of crisis. The 24-hour crisis line (800-205-7037) is also accessible to law enforcement and other professionals in need of services and information.

Medical Accompaniment
Our team of advocates provide medical accompaniment before, during, and after a forensic medical exam.

Victim Advocacy
Our team of victim advocates provide emotional support to the victim before, during, and after a forensic medical exam.

Legal Advocacy
Our team of advocates are able to answer the questions regarding the process of the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators, provide safety planning and court accompaniment during the criminal justice process.

Georgia Crime Victim Compensation Application
Our team of advocates are able to assist victims with the Georgia Crime Victims Compensation application.

Counseling Referrals
Our team of advocates are able to provide referrals to independent, professionally licensed counselors in the community.

Information Referrals
Our team of advocates are able to provide referrals to community-based organizations that assist with specific needs (i.e., shelters, rent assistance, food assistance, etc.).

Follow-up Case Management
Our team of advocates follow up with the victim and/or caregiver after they have been seen at the center for a forensic medical exam and/or interview.