When should the healthcare provider initiate medical treatment of a sexual assault victim?

Initiating medical treatment of a sexual assault victim as soon as they arrive at the medical treatment facility and report the assault is crucial for various reasons. First and foremost, the priority is to provide immediate care to address any injuries, offer necessary medications to prevent sexually transmitted infections, and ensure the victim’s emotional support needs are met. Time-sensitive medical interventions such as the administration of emergency contraception and prophylactic treatments can significantly impact the victim's health and well-being.

While a forensic exam is important for collecting evidence, it does not take precedence over the immediate care required by the victim. The healthcare provider's obligation is to ensure the victim’s medical needs are addressed promptly, regardless of the status of any forensic procedures or law enforcement notifications. Waiting for a SAFE examiner to arrive or for law enforcement involvement could delay crucial medical care, which is not in the best interest of the victim. Hence, treating the victim upon their arrival is the most appropriate and effective course of action.