Access to forensic medical exams now
Right now many victims of sexual assault are not getting the appropriate care they need.
If a victim-survivor seeks help immediately after a sexual assault, they should be offered access to forensic medical exam. This exam provides important medical care and collects any forensic evidence. It can help identify the person who committed the crime and support the account of the victim survivor. It can also be an important step in the journey towards recovery and healing.
Right now too many victim-survivors can’t access this critical service when or where they need it. Instead many victim-survivors are left waiting many hours or traveling long distances to access this care.
At the same time, to avoid compromising potential evidence, victim-survivors will be told to stay in the clothes they were assaulted in, unable to wash, drink, change or go to the bathroom.
We will be meeting with government decision makers on this issue. Help us show a groundswell of community support for the change needed.
Victim-survivors should be able to access the care and support they need regardless of where they live.