If Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) facilities are unavailable at the local military facility, what will happen to the patient?

The correct answer is that the patient will be transported to an off-base facility with SAFE capabilities. This procedure is in place to ensure that individuals who have experienced sexual assault receive the most appropriate, timely, and comprehensive medical care possible. SAFE facilities are specifically equipped to perform forensic examinations and provide necessary care, which includes evaluating injuries, collecting evidence, and offering appropriate medical and psychological support.

When a local military facility does not have the necessary resources to conduct a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam, accessing specialized care at an off-base facility is essential. This ensures that the patient receives proper evaluation and support as quickly as possible, minimizing any potential lapses in care or evidence collection.

Although other options may seem plausible, they do not directly provide the comprehensive care required by such sensitive cases. On-site treatment may not have the specific forensic capabilities required, telemedicine assistance might not cover the immediate hands-on care needed, and waiting for a SAFE team could delay critical medical intervention. Hence, the decision to transport to an off-base facility aligns with the commitment to provide the highest standard of care for survivors of sexual assault.