Forensic Healthcare Program
Mission
The mission of the BAMC Forensic Healthcare Program is to provide comprehensive and expert forensic medical care to the community we serve. We act with unwavering compassion, integrity, and urgency, fostering a path to healing that treats every patient with dignity, supports them at every step, and ultimately upholds the readiness of the Force.
Our Team
Caring for patients who have experienced violence requires a unique combination of expertise and compassion. Our dedicated team is specially trained to provide that care. We have a deep understanding of the complexities of sexual assault, domestic violence, strangulation, and human trafficking, ensuring you receive informed, sensitive, and supportive treatment from the moment you connect with us.
Hours of Operation to Receive Care
Our Forensic Healthcare Program is based out of the Brooke Army Medical Center Emergency Department. You can report 24/7 to request Medical & Forensic Healthcare.
The Medical Forensic Exam
Your Health, Your Choices
Your health, safety, and comfort are our top priorities. This specialized exam is offered to care for your well-being after a report of violence or abuse.
Exam components may include gathering a detailed history of events, head to toe examination, swabs of affected body parts, photographs of potential injuries, appropriate labs and imaging, and medications as needed. We partner with other providers to make sure patients receive any additional medical and mental healthcare needed.
You are in complete control. Every step will be explained, and you decide what you are comfortable with. Any part of the exam can be changed, stopped, or skipped at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A1: For general medical and emotional support, no. There is never a deadline.
However, some specific services are time sensitive. For the best outcomes, please be aware of the following timeframes:
- Forensic Exam: Most effective within 7 days.
- HIV Prevention Medication: Must be started within 3 days.
- Emergency Contraception: Most effective within 5 days.
A2: Yes, absolutely. Your care is entirely your choice. You can receive STI testing and medication without any other type of exam or procedure. Our specialized team will provide the confidential testing and treatment you're asking for. If you wish, we can also offer expedited access to a network of trusted resources for your complete physical and emotional health.
A3: No, not unless you choose for them to be. You are in complete control of who is notified. When you arrive, you will be connected with a confidential Victim Advocate. Their role is to support you and privately explain your reporting options in detail, without any pressure. Your decision determines if command is involved.
Here are the two main options they will discuss with you:
An Official Investigation Begins?
You receive confidential medical care, a forensic exam, and advocacy services without an official report being made or your command being informed.
You receive medical care, a forensic exam, and advocacy services, and you choose to make an official report. This will start an investigation and notify your command.
The choice is entirely yours. Our primary goal is to ensure you get the medical care and support you need in a way that makes you feel safest.
A4: The choice is entirely yours, however, we strongly recommend a medical evaluation even if you don't see any injuries.
A forensic exam is about more than just visible wounds; it's a comprehensive check-up for your health and peace of mind. Our team is trained to be gentle and thorough. The exam is a way to take care of yourself and ensure your complete well-being after an incident.
A5: No, we are the medical part of your support team, while SHARP/SAPR is the advocacy part. We work hand-in-hand to provide you with complete care.
Think of us as two expert teams focused on you:
Our Role: Forensic Healthcare
SHARP/SAPR's Role: Advocacy
We are your medical experts. Our team consists of doctors, nurses, and other providers.
They are your support and system experts. They are trained victim advocates.
Our focus is on your physical health: providing exams, treating injuries, and offering medical care.
Their focus is on guiding you: explaining reporting options, offering emotional support, and helping you navigate the system.
We provide specialized, trauma-informed medical treatment.
They provide confidential advocacy and support.
Together, we ensure you receive both the expert healthcare you need and the dedicated advocacy you deserve.