Information patients can review at their conveniance

Offer patients information that they can review at their convenience.[1]  Information should be tailored to patients’ communication skill level/modality and language. Developing material in alternative formats may be useful, such as information that is taped, in Braille, in large print, in various languages, or uses pictures and simple language.[2] A victim booklet or packet that includes information about the following topics may be helpful: 

  • The crime itself (e.g., facts about sexual assault and related criminal statutes);
  • Normal reactions to sexual assault (stressing that it is never the victim’s fault), and signs and symptoms of traumatic response;
  • Victims’ rights;
  • Victim support and advocacy services;
  • Mental health counseling options and referrals;
  • Resources for the victim’s significant others;
  • The examination—what happened and how evidence/findings will be used;
  • Medical discharge and followup instructions;
  • Planning for their safety and well-being;
  • Examination payment and reimbursement information;
  • Steps and options in the criminal justice process;
  • Civil remedies that may be available to sexual assault victims; and
  • Procedures for patients to access their medical record or applicable law enforcement reports.

[1] Many local sexual assault advocacy programs and state coalitions of sexual assault programs offer publications that speak to victims' concerns in the aftermath of an assault. However, any involved agency, SART, or coordinating council could develop such literature.

[2] For example, one sexual assault advocacy program offers a booklet “for those who read best with few words” designed for people with developmental disabilities who have been sexually assaulted. For more information on this publication, contact the Los Angeles Commission on Assaults Against Women by phone (213–955–9090) or e-mail info@lacaaw.org.



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