For folks who have been sexually assaulted recently (within the past 5 days), we recommend seeking medical care and documentation of the incident at the hospital. You can do so by presenting at the emergency room (we recommend Banner) and requesting a medical forensic exam (MFE), otherwise known as a rape kit. For assaults occurring within 5-7 days, please reach out to Survivor Advocacy for assistance consulting if an MFE is an option.
Are MFE's Anonymous?
People 18 and older who are not vulnerable adults (adults 65+ or adults with disabilities whose disability was taken advantage of to facilitate the assault) have the right to get an anonymous kit. This means that you are not required to report to law enforcement. In the state of Arizona, physicians are required to notify law enforcement that a sexual assault occurred but that does not mean you will be identified or have to speak with law enforcement if that doesn't feel safe. During the exam you have the option to pick and choose what you want to be documented, as well as receive preventative treatment for STIs and pregnancy.
Should there have been any instances of strangulation or sexual choking, there are options to receive a CT scan and assess internal injuries that often are not visible in that moment or to the human eye. Strangulation is incredibly lethal and we highly encourage seeking medical assistance/follow-up care.
How Much Does It Cost?
When receiving an MFE, it will not show up to insurance that you got a kit done. Any processes during the exam is covered by the state. Insurance will only be billed for the ER visit and anything care received outside of the MFE. (These are expenses that the Survivor Advocates can help you get reimbursed.)
Can I Bring Someone With Me to a MFE?
Going to the hospital can feel scary. Please know that you can bring a friend or loved one. In addition, SACASA (Southern Arizona Center Against Sexual Assault) provides accompaniment to folx presenting in the Tucson area. This accompaniment does not need to be coordinated on the patient's end, the hospital will take care of it.
Survivor Advocates Can Help
If there are any concerns about going to the hospital and additional information needed to make a decision about this option, please contact Survivor Advocacy at 520-621-5767 or survivoradvocacy@arizona.edu during business hours (8am-6pm M-F) and SACASA at 520-327-1171 after hours.
Every state has different laws about receiving medical forensic exams. Survivor Advocates are happy to consult and assist remotely in determining relevant laws for folks seeking kits outside of Arizona.