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Reassuring the Child and Family

Medical Evaluation

Helping Children Heal

We offer medical evaluations for children who come to the Center.

 The Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner gathers forensic medical information for the investigation of the reported abuse and may also make recommendations to ensure that the health needs of the child are met.

The purpose of the medical evaluation at the Children’s Advocacy Center is:

  1. To help ensure the health, safety and well-being of the child;

  2. To diagnose, document evidence and address any medical conditions resulting from abuse;

  3. To differentiate medical findings that may indicate abuse from those that may be explained by other medical conditions, or caused by accident;

  4. To assess the child for any developmental, emotional or behavioral problems needing further evaluations and treatment and make referrals as necessary;

  5. To reassure and educate the child and non-offending caregiver(s).

The Children’s Advocacy Center has on-site specially trained pediatric forensic examiners who specialize in sexual abuse cases and are able to immediately provide quality assessments and care to children who visit the Center. In addition, the Center contracts with Dr. Dale Woolridge, a pediatrician who serves as our medical director.

Having these services available in our building means there is no need for families to travel to another location, deal with the long waiting times associated with emergency rooms, and have medical services provided by someone who may not be specialized in caring for child abuse victims.