On-site Medical Exams

Medical care in a safe and comfortable setting is an important part of supporting children and families after abuse. At the CAC, we have access to Corewell Health forensic nurses who are also sexual assault nurse examiners (SANE's). These nurses are specially trained to provide nursing care to children and teens who have experienced sexual abuse, physical abuse, or sex trafficking.

At the Children’s Advocacy Center families can make an appointment with a forensic nurse, or sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE). SANE's provide compassionate, trauma-informed care at the CAC in a dedicated medical exam room in non-emergency situations.

During the visit, the forensic nurse (SANE) explains each step, answers questions, and helps the child or teen feel comfortable. A caregiver may be present, or the exam may be done privately.  Exams are always provided only to the child's comfort level. 

Exams are gentle, slow, and non-invasive, guided by the child or teen. Each step is explained and completed only with the patient’s permission. If the child or teen becomes uncomfortable, the exam stops. The child always has the right to speak up and maintain control over their body.  

At the CAC, families can also arrange pregnancy testing, sexually transmitted infection testing or treatment, health and safety guidance and evidence collection when requested and appropriate. 

While nurses are not part of law enforcement or the prosecutor’s office, they are trusted members of the multidisciplinary team and play an important role in supporting each child’s care and healing plan. 

Medical exams may be scheduled at the CAC if the time since the abuse was greater than 120 hours (five days). If care is needed sooner because the child is having a medical emergency or if evidence collection is wanted, families should go to an emergency room to access medical care. 

The same forensic nurses (SANE's) that serve the CAC are available 24/7 at all Berrien County Corewell Health Emergency Departments.