Medical Exams
Our Medical Examinations
We aim to make our patients feel as comfortable as possible with a child-oriented exam. We recognize child victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect often have concerns about their bodies that they are afraid to voice. Our medical team is well versed in gaining the child’s trust and moving at an appropriate pace so we can collect physical evidence from a thorough exam while respecting the autonomy of each child who comes to us for an exam.
FAQs
The medical exams are performed here at The Tree House in our child-friendly exam rooms. The Medical Team is a regular part of our staff. We are equipped to medically evaluate, examine and provide treatment recommendations for child victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. We serve children from ages 0 -17.
Our Medical Team consists of a Board-Certified Child Abuse Pediatrician and a Registered Nurse. They specialize in examining and treating children who have suffered abuse.
There are two parts to the medical evaluation, obtaining a history from the child and a physical examination.
Our goal during the medical visit is to determine the current health and wellness of the child. We address all physical and emotional needs, uncovering evidence of abuse and neglect in the process. This holistic approach allows us to understand and address the specific needs of our patients so we can build a personalized strategy for healing.
We never force a child to comply with a medical exam. During the office visit, our Pediatrician and Nurse explain the exam to the child and their parent. The child has the opportunity to ask any questions, voice concerns, or express any fears they have. Empowering our patients by treating them with respect helps engage willingness. We respect their right to say no.
After the child speaks confidentially with our Pediatrician, we escort them to a child-friendly exam room. Here the child has the option of inviting their parent to join. They change into a gown. When the child is ready to begin the exam, we start with vital signs (height, weight, etc.), then a complete head-to-toe exam is performed. The exam includes collecting appropriate lab samples for STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) and photos or videos if necessary.
Yes. The Pediatrician and Nurse will discuss the results with both the child and the parent, either together or separately. We will offer treatment recommendations as well.
With parental consent, we will send a copy of the medical report to the child’s pediatrician. This ensures that the child’s medical practitioner is aware of the recent trauma (and any other medical needs we uncover) and can provide compassionate follow-up care. We will inform the pediatrician of any lab test results as soon as they become available.
All services at The Tree House are free of charge. We do not bill your insurance company.
Yes. If we believe a child would benefit from additional services, we will make a recommendation.
You or your child are always welcome to call our Child Abuse Pediatrician or Nurse to discuss the child’s health and well-being if any questions arise later. We understand this process may be overwhelming for both parent and child. You can call us anytime.
