Goal of the Protocol

A timely, well-done medical forensic examination can potentially validate and address sexual assault patients’[1] concerns, minimize the trauma they may experience, and promote their healing. At the same time, it can increase the likelihood that evidence collected will aid in criminal case investigation, resulting in perpetrators being held accountable and further sexual violence prevented.

The examination and the related responsibilities of health care personnel are the focus of this protocol. Recognizing that multidisciplinary coordination is vital to the success of the exam, the protocol also discusses the responses of other professionals, as they relate to the exam process.


[1] Sexual assault patients are also referred to as victims, depending on which responders are primarily being discussed. The term “patients” is generally used by health care professionals.



Go to the Complete Section: Goals of the Protocol