Medical Resources

Medical Treatment

After an experience of unwanted sexual contact, you may consider seeking medical treatment, such as:

  • STI treatment and testing and/or discussing the risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with a health professional
    • Preventive treatment for certain STIs can be most effective within 1-3 days of the sexual contact
    • Find more information about post-exposure prophylaxis (preventative treatment for HIV) such as where to find it and how to pay for it 
  • Forensic exam to collect potential physical evidence and determine additional necessary treatment (also called a sexual assault forensic exam, or ‘rape kit’) Learn more about the Forensic Exam.
    • A forensic exam may be conducted up to 5 days after the incident
    • To preserve evidence one should not shower, bathe, brush teeth, or change clothes before visiting a hospital for a forensic exam
  • Discussing the risks of pregnancy resulting from a sexual assault and/or contraception methods and alternatives with a health professional

You can have a support person or people of your choice such as a friend, family member, or advocate accompany you throughout the medical care process. You can also contact the Title IX staff or Crisis Intervention Services (1-800-270-1620) to request someone to come with you.

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Medical Centers

Coe College Health Services
Lower P.U.B. 1220 First Ave NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
M-F, 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm
319-399-8617
www.coe.edu/student-life-resources/health-wellness/health-services/services-offered

Mercy Medical Center
701 10th Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Open 24/7
319-398-6011
www.mercycare.org

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Forensic Exam

What is it?

The Sexual Assault Forensic Exam, also called a ‘rape kit’, is an exam that checks for and documents physical evidence of sexual battery, sexual assault, or rape, and may be conducted up to 5 days after the incident. To best preserve evidence, one should not bathe, shower, brush teeth, or go to the bathroom until after the forensic exam. Evidence from a forensic exam can be used in prosecuting sexual assault cases through the criminal justice system.

Where can I get one?

St Luke’s Medical Center
1026 A Ave. NE
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402
319-369-7211

How does it work?

A sexual assault nurse examiner, (SANE) or doctor will begin the exam by asking about your medical history and health, and may ask about the characteristics or details of the assault. A physical exam will be performed and samples from various parts of the body may be collected to test for DNA. A toxicology test may also be done to test for drugs in the system, and clothing may be kept as evidence.  At the hospital they may ask for your insurance, however, there is no charge for a rape kit and you do not need to provide insurance.

Will the police be notified?

When someone comes in for a forensic exam (kit), the nurse is required to call Cedar Rapids Police Department. If you do not want to speak with the police or file a police report, an officer will come in after you leave to collect the kit. You will be given a case number that correlates with your kit, and if you decide that you would like to speak with the police later, you can reference your case number and they will be able to identify your kit.

How are forensic exams used?

After the exam, the doctor or nurse will document the findings in a medical record, which can later be subpoenaed to assist in the legal process. Your kit will be saved with the police department for 14 years.

Can I have someone with me?

You can have a support person (or people) of your choice such as a friend, family member, or advocate accompany you throughout the medical care process. You can also call the Iowa Sexual Assault Hotline at 888-557-0310 to speak with someone confidentially and request someone to accompany you to receive medical care.

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