Oroville, CA – Despite its rare occurrence, sexual violence is still a reality in Butte County and Oroville Hospital is being proactive about the care that is given to victims. They have implemented a Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) in order to be better prepared for rape victims that come to the hospital. The goal of the team is to help coordinate the response, increase reporting and conviction, have exams preformed correctly and in a timely manner, and provide emotional support to victims of sexual assault.
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The Sexual Assault Response Team consists of seven SART trained Oroville Hospital nurses, local law enforcement, and rape crisis. When a victim comes to the hospital, if law enforcement have not been notified they will be called to conduct an interview. In cases where an exam is necessary, a trained nurse will get consent forms signed, interview the patient, perform an exam, and provide support by helping the patient through their difficult time. Rape crisis will also come to the hospital to be a support for the patient.
“Implementing a SART team is important. We want to let our community know that we care and are here for them in every aspect. We have the ability to take care of them immediately in order to not have to prolong this time in their lives any longer than necessary,” says Lori Hestand, an emergency service department manager at Oroville Hospital.
Being a victim and survivor of sexual assault can be traumatic. Oroville Hospital offers services to help encourage and empower victims through their experience. A victim’s decision about their care is respected and adhered to through the entire process. For more information regarding the Oroville Hospital Sexual Assault Response Team you can call the Emergency Services Department at 532-8342.