“Sexual assault is a serious societal problem that creates significant challenges to local communities as they attempt to create an overall plan for meeting the medial, emotional, physical safety, and legal needs of the patient. Well-planned multidisciplinary community response plans have been demonstrated to be cost effective while diminishing further harm to the patient and providing comprehensive care (Module-Societal Costs of Sexual Assault). Sexual assault response/resource teams (SARTs) have also enhanced public safety by increasing public awareness, increasing reporting, and facilitating investigation.” (ACEP)
If you have a patient who discloses sexual assault or you have reason to believe that a child has been a victim of abuse or neglect, including sexual abuse, you are required BY LAW to report directly to the Department of Child Services by calling the hotline at 1-800-800-5556 and/or law enforcement.
Although The Fort Wayne Sexual Assault Treatment Center is the recognized credentialed provider of treatment for patients who have been sexually assaulted or abused, every healthcare provider has a duty and obligation to understand the process of identifying and referring patients to us.
Please reference and use the following algorithms as a guide. The algorithms can be viewed and saved by clicking on the individual links below.
For Healthcare Professionals:
Care of the Pediatric Sexual Assault Patient: Ages 17 and Younger
Care of the Adult/Adolescent Sexual Assault Patient: Ages 18 & Older