Sexual Assault Forensic Programs

Caring for Survivors of Interpersonal Violence, Sexual Assault, and Human Trafficking

Sexual Assault Forensic Programs in Maryland

Immediate Help

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, abuse, or interpersonal violence:

  • Call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department now.
  • You do not need to report to law enforcement to receive medical care or a forensic exam.

Hospitals across Maryland offer Sexual Assault Forensic Exams (SAFEs) at designated hospitals in each jurisdiction. Maryland hospitals have specially trained forensic nurse examiners who provide trauma-informed medical care, collect forensic evidence if requested, and support you through the process in a confidential and respectful way.

Learn more (English)  Más información (Spanish)

How to Access Services

Hospital Programs

Maryland hospitals have Sexual Assault Programs staffed by specially trained nurses and examiners. These programs offer:

  • 24/7 emergency services
  • Confidential care
  • Evidence collection and documentation
  • Referrals for counseling, legal support, and advocacy

The Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA) maintains a list of hospital-based sexual assault forensic programs.

In addition, MHA worked with MCASA to create an informational guide, which is available in English and Spanish.

Learn more (English)  Más información (Spanish)

State-Support Units

  • Sexual Assault Reimbursement Unit (SARU): Maryland state law ensures survivors of sexual assault have access to emergency medical treatment for injuries sustained as a result of the assault, with no out-of-pocket expenses. This includes access to medications to prevent HIV and re-victimization by easing the reimbursement process.
  • The nPEP Pilot Program was established in 2019 to provide a full 28-day course of HIV post-exposure prophylaxis at no cost to patients. MHA partnered with the MCASA to advocate for the initial pilot program and to make the program permanent. The program continues to provide access to critical medications to survivors.

Additional Resources

The Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth & Victims Services’ Sexual Assault Reimbursement Unit (SARU) is the state entity responsible for reimbursing these medical and forensic services.

MCASA