Medical Examinations

Medical Examinations

The Children’s Advocacy Center of the Bluegrass operates a child-friendly, on-site medical clinic to evaluate those children who have reported inappropriate physical contact. Regardless of how long ago the assault occurred, it is important that child and adolescent victims receive a thorough examination to ensure that they are physically and emotionally healthy.

 

The medical clinic is staffed by a physician and nurse who are specially trained to treat child victims of sexual assault. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker works with the medical team to assess each child’s emotional well-being. A comprehensive medical examination is conducted for a number of reasons. It allows the physician to:

  • Diagnose and treat injury
  • Test for sexually transmitted diseases
  • Collect forensic evidence when appropriate
  • Assess behavioral and emotional problems
  • Make additional referrals

Although there are very rarely physical signs of sexual abuse, many families are reassured knowing that no permanent physical damage has been done.  Medical exams are scheduled by appointment only.  Medical examinations are made possible, in part, by a grant from the Child Victims’ Trust Fund.

 

All services are provided at no cost to a child’s family.