The Safe Therapeutic Assault Response Team (START) - Forensic Nurse Examiner Program
Forensic nurse examiners and first responders provide comprehensive forensic exams and compassionate emotional support for victims of sexual assault.
If you need help or would like more information about the Safe Therapeutic Assault Response Team (START), call our Crisis and Support Line at 248-334-1274 or chat with us online.
There is no fee for this service.
What is the Safe Therapeutic Assault Response Team?
What does the team do?
Who can benefit from this service?
What is the Safe Therapeutic Assault Response Team?
The START team, made up of forensic nurses, physician’s assistants and HAVEN advocates, provides comprehensive compassionate care to the victims of sexual assault. Sexual assault patients receive both emotional support by the advocate and therapeutic medical care in a safe environment. This care includes medical attention, a detailed forensic exam and prophylactic medication as indicated.
What does the team do?
The Forensic Examiners (FEs) are specially trained to perform medical forensic examinations of adolescent and adult victims of acute sexual assault. They collect evidence from suspects in police custody and work with victims. They are also trained in giving court testimony.
Who can benefit from this service?
FEs assist any victim of sexual assault who reports the crime within 120 hours of its occurrence. FEs examine both males and females and provide evidence collection from both victims and suspects.
Learn about donating items to the START program.