Texas Health recognizes the need to help sexual assault victims right away to begin the healing process. In addition, we recognize that hospitals can play an important role in the potential collection of physical evidence to aid in the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases. In 2018, Texas Health expanded sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) services to wholly owned Texas Health entities across north Texas.
Victims can be seen and treated at any time of the day or night in the Texas Health emergency departments listed. SANE-certified nurses are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They know that when a sexual assault crisis strikes, it's important for victims to receive health care in a safe, respected and professional manner — all while working to collect specimens that have the potential to be valid forensic evidence.
Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) Locations
Two Texas Health facilities are Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) centers or hubs:
—Texas Health, W.W. Caruth Jr. Center for Safe Healing
—Texas Health Fort Worth SAFE Suite
Both sites feature:
- Secure exam room(s) specifically set up for medical forensic examinations
- Secure family waiting room(s)
- Law enforcement/social service advocacy room(s)
- Private bathroom(s) with shower(s)
- Secure access to evidence collection for law enforcement personnel
Other Texas Health facilities without SAFE Suites offer SANE services and resources and are located here.