Forensic Medical Services
of Central Virginia
434-269-1100
Your Care. Your Choices.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR FORENSIC MEDICAL OPTIONS
After experiencing violence, abuse, or sexual assault, you may have questions about medical care, evidence collection, confidentiality, and reporting to law enforcement.
You deserve clear information, compassionate care, and the opportunity to make informed decisions about what happens next.
You don't have to make every decision today.
Do I Have to Report to Police?
Not necessarily. In many situations, you can receive a forensic medical examination and have evidence collected without making an immediate report to law enforcement. Certain exceptions apply, and we'll explain those before your examination.
YOU MAY HAVE OPTIONS
People who have experienced sexual assault may be eligible for an anonymous forensic medical examination. Evidence can be collected and preserved without immediately making a report to law enforcement.
These options may also be available to adolescents, depending on the circumstances. Parental notification or consent may be required, but that does not necessarily mean law enforcement must be involved.
Choosing an anonymous examination does not prevent you from deciding to report later.
WHEN REPORTING IS REQUIRED
Virginia law requires healthcare professionals to report certain circumstances, including suspected child abuse or neglect, suspected abuse of qualifying vulnerable adults, and specific injuries.
We will explain any applicable reporting requirements and their implications before proceeding whenever possible.
YOUR DECISIONS MATTER
Your preferences, safety, and informed consent are central to your care.
You can ask questions, discuss your options, and decline individual components of evidence collection. Some parts of the examination and evidence collection may be necessary to complete a forensic examination, but we'll explain those requirements before proceeding.
You can ask about your reporting options before deciding whether to schedule an examination.
What Happens During a Forensic Examination?
STEP 1 — WE TALK FIRST
We'll begin by discussing your concerns, medical needs, and what brought you to us. You can ask questions and share information at your own pace.
We'll explain the examination process, discuss consent and confidentiality, and review any reporting requirements that may apply.
STEP 2 — MEDICAL ASSESSMENT
Your provider will assess injuries, symptoms, and other health concerns related to your experience.
Depending on your circumstances, this may include a physical examination, assessment for injuries that aren't immediately visible, and discussion of testing or treatment options.
STEP 3 — DOCUMENTATION & EVIDENCE COLLECTION
Your provider will explain each part of the examination before proceeding. This may include detailed documentation, specialized photography, and collection of forensic evidence.
You may decline individual components of evidence collection. We'll explain which elements are necessary to complete a forensic examination and discuss your options.
STEP 4 — PLANNING YOUR NEXT STEPS
Before you leave, we'll discuss examination findings, recommended medical treatment, follow-up care, and available support resources.
We'll also explain what happens to any evidence collected and review reporting options that apply to your situation.
Your voice matters throughout your examination. We'll explain each step, respect your decisions, and help you understand your options.
Questions You May Have
It's normal to have questions after experiencing violence or abuse. Here are answers to some common concerns. If you're unsure what applies to your situation, we're here to help you understand your options.
WHAT IF I'VE ALREADY SHOWERED OR CHANGED MY CLOTHES? You can still receive a forensic medical examination. Showering, bathing, changing clothes, eating, or using the bathroom does not automatically eliminate the possibility of collecting evidence. Some evidence may no longer be available, but other evidence or injuries may still be documented. Please don't let this prevent you from reaching out.
IS IT TOO LATE TO HAVE AN EXAMINATION? Not necessarily. Some types of evidence are time-sensitive, but the opportunity for medical assessment and forensic documentation may extend beyond the typical evidence-collection window. Contact us as soon as possible so we can discuss what options may still be available.
DO I HAVE TO HAVE EVIDENCE COLLECTED? Forensic examinations provided through FMS include appropriate evidence collection and documentation. You may decline individual components of evidence collection. We'll explain what is involved, which elements are necessary to complete an examination, and your options before proceeding. You do not have to agree to an examination simply because you contact us.
WILL I HAVE TO PAY FOR MY EXAMINATION? Our goal is to ensure that cost is not a barrier to receiving forensic medical care. Virginia provides funding for eligible sexual assault, strangulation, and certain physical abuse forensic examinations. FMS also has grant funding to help cover some examinations that do not involve law enforcement. For examinations that do not qualify for available funding, FMS may provide care at no cost to the patient. Please don't let concerns about payment prevent you from reaching out. We'll explain your options before proceeding.
CAN TEENAGERS RECEIVE FORENSIC EXAMINATIONS? Yes. Adolescents may have options for forensic medical examinations, including anonymous evidence collection in certain circumstances. Parental consent or notification requirements and mandatory reporting obligations depend on the situation. Peer-on-peer sexual assault does not automatically mean a police report is required. We can explain the requirements that apply before an examination.
WILL MY INFORMATION REMAIN CONFIDENTIAL? We take your privacy seriously and protect medical information in accordance with applicable privacy laws. However, healthcare professionals must report certain circumstances, such as suspected child abuse or neglect and other situations specified by Virginia law. We'll explain any applicable reporting requirements and confidentiality limitations.