Medical Resources

Medical Treatment

  • Forensic exam to collect potential physical evidence and determine additional necessary treatment (also called a sexual assault forensic exam, or SANE Exam)
  • A forensic exam may be conducted up to 5 days after the incident
  • To best preserve evidence, avoid changing your clothes, showering, brushing your teeth, or eating or drinking anything before visiting a hospital for a forensic exam.
  • Learn more about the 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 Office at (315) 781-3922 during business hours or Campus Safety at (315) 781-3333 after hours to request someone to come with you.

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Medical Centers

Hubbs Health Center
(315) 781-3600
After hours call Campus Safety (315) 781-3333

F.F. Thompson Hospital
(585) 396-6000
350 Parrish St, Canandaigua, N.Y. 14424
A Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) is available

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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. The State of New York recommends that you do this within 48 hours of 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 a forensic exam?

F.F. Thompson Hospital
(585) 396-6000
350 Parrish St, Canandaigua, N.Y. 14424

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 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. 

Will the police be notified that I got a forensic exam?

When you request a forensic exam, the SANE will only notify the police at your request. An officer and an advocate will both arrive at the hospital. You can also speak with the police without pressing charges. Receiving a forensic exam does not mean that you need to file a report with HWS or the police.

How is it 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.

Do I have to pay for it?

New York State provides financial assistance to individuals who have a sexual assault exam. The HWS Title IX Coordinator can provide you with information related to financial assistance. The conversation regarding financial assistance will be confidential.

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 contact the Office of Title IX Programs and Compliance at (315) 781-3922 during business hours or contact Campus Safety at (315) 781-3333 after hours to request transportation or for someone to accompany you to F.F. Thompson Hospital.

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