NCJ Number
111145
Date Published
1987
Length
105 pages
Annotation
A hearing before two California legislative committees in 1987 focused on medical examinations for sexual assault victims, with emphasis on the use and fiscal responsibilities of agencies and hospitals in relation to examinations required by State law as part of the forensic preparation for prosecution.
Abstract
Speakers included representatives of agencies and crisis centers concerned with sexual assault victims, medical professionals, and representatives of advocacy organizations and the criminal justice system. They noted that private hospitals often turn away victims of sexual assault, citing lack of reimbursement from local agencies and new examination regulations. They discussed the reasons for referrals to other hospitals, the extent of referrals, the impact of these referrals on victims, and the procedures for notifying law enforcement authorities and victims' rights groups about referrals. They also commented on the rate of reimbursement to hospitals, the costs to hospitals of completing the required medical protocols, the source of payments, and the availability of hospital facilities. Questions from legislators and written statements.