What is a Forensic Medical Examination?
A forensic medical examination is a legally-sound, medical examination done to ensure that a child’s body is safe and healthy following an allegation of child abuse. A medical examination may be offered to any child who is brought to the Warren-Washington C.A.R.E. Center for non-emergent concerns. Medical evaluations are performed by a trained, board-certified pediatric medical doctor.
All examinations are comprehensive and carefully conducted in a child-friendly setting and involve a complete medical history and a non-invasive, head-to-toe physical exam.
Information for Caregivers
If the child you are caring for has to have a forensic medical examination at the Warren Washington C.A.R.E. Center, here is what you can expect:
- You will be greeted by one of our friendly C.A.R.E. Center Staff and ushered into our Family Waiting Room.
- We will go over the consent forms and complete the New York State Office of Victims Services reimbursement form to ensure your family is not billed for this visit. To learn more about the New York State Office of Victims Services, please click here.
- We will explain our child-friendly process and answer any concerns or questions you may have.
- We will introduce you to an advocate who will be there to provide support and accurate information to your family throughout the entire investigation process.
- We will build a relationship with you and your child to ensure that they feel safe and reassured.
- Our medical doctor will then ask your child to step into our examination room and begin the examination.
- Typically, you can expect to be at the CARE Center for 1 hour, however, this estimation may run shorter or longer depending on the circumstances.
- Following the completion of the medical examination, we will provide you with any insights and referrals we can.