PLANNING COMMITTEE TO IMPLEMENT IMPROVED ACCESS TO SEXUAL ASSAULT MEDICAL FORENSIC EXAMINATIONS IN MARYLAND

Appointed by Governor:
Joyce A. Dantzler, Co-Chair (chosen by Governor)
Carole Ann Mays, R.N., Co-Chair (chosen by Governor)
Mark E. Arsenault; Margareta K. Cuccia, R.N.; Eunice M. Esposito, R.N.; Marie C. Jackson, M.D.; Lisae C. Jordan, Esq.; Susan L. Kraus, R.N.; Brian C. McGarry; Verlin T. Meekins; Kathleen O. O'Brien, Ph.D.; Gail Nutter Reid; Casey L. Swope; MaryLou Watson. Terms expire 2016.

Staff: Tiwanica A. Moore; Amy E. Robinson.

c/o Environmental Health Bureau
Department of Health & Mental Hygiene
500 North Calvert St., 5th floor, Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 767-1372
e-mail: amye.robinson@maryland.gov
tiwanica.moore@maryland.gov

In June 2014, the Planning Committee to Implement Improved Access to Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Examinations in Maryland was created (Chapter 627, Acts of 2014).

The Committee reviewed protocols for providing timely access to a forensic examination by a physician or forensic nurse examiner for victims of alleged rape or sexual assault, and, indeed, since July 1, 2014, these protocols have been required for hospitals providing emergency medical services.

Barriers for individuals seeking such forensic medical examinations were identified by the Committee, and reimbursement issues studied. Further, the Committee considered how to educate the public on where to go for sexual assault medical services, including forensic examination; and how to ensure that emergency medical service providers and local law enforcement agencies send sexual assault victims to a hospital with the capability of providing the appropriate forensic examination.

As it formulated recommendations, the Committee also reviewed other issues, such as geographic differences, best practices in other states, hospital reporting requirements, and victim privacy.

In December 2015, the Committee submitted its report to the Governor, the Senate Finance Committee, and the House Health and Government Operations Committee.

Authorization for the Committee ended June 30, 2016.

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