Medical Services
The purpose of a forensic medical exam is to determine the health and well-being of the victim and collect any forensic medical evidence of a crime.
The exam is conducted with crime victims who have experienced some form of assault, be it physical, sexual or both. These exams are performed by specially trained forensic medical examiners, which include nurse practitioners, and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners.
VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN ACT (VAWA) HOTLINE 480-312-6339
Under the Violence Against Women Act, adult victims / survivors of sexual assault have the right to a medical forensic exam, at no cost to you, regardless of whether you report to law enforcement.
A forensic exam is a comprehensive medical exam provided by a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, or physician with specialized training in the medical care and treatment of sexual and domestic violence victims. Each part of the exam requires your consent and you do not have to participate in anything that makes you uncomfortable. You always have the right to say “YES” and “NO” at any point in the exam.
Forensic Nurse Examiners provide quality, compassionate nursing care as they provide head-to-toe medical-forensic examinations on victims. During the exam, FNE collects medical samples and document injuries. This evidence can be vital to an investigation of interpersonal violence and help law enforcement prosecute abusers and attackers.
In Yavapai County, Honor Health Forensic Nurse Examiner Program conducts medical forensic exams at the Yavapai Family Advocacy Center (YFAC).
If reporting to law enforcement, the exam will be scheduled on your behalf and you will be transported to the YFAC. Call 911.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request a medical exam?
Medical examinations are a part of the criminal investigation process. Therefore, only law enforcement can request a medical examination.
What should my child know about the medical exam?
If your child receives a medical examination, explain that this is to make sure that his or her body is healthy. Assure your child that this exam will not hurt and that the medical examiner will tell your child everything that she will be doing prior to the exam.
Other Services Provided by YFAC:
Forensic Interviews →
Legal Services →
Victim Advocacy →
