Onsite Exam
The exam takes place in the Children's Justice Center's special medical room.
Iron County Children's Justice Center
Medical Exams
Child-focused medical evaluations are provided onsite by professionals specially trained in child physical and sexual abuse.
Medical Services
Medical Exams for Every Child
Each child who comes to the Children's Justice Center is offered a free medical exam in a child-centered environment.
Medical exams are performed by medical professionals specially trained in child physical and sexual abuse and are provided through Primary Children's Safe and Healthy Families.
Medical exams may also be requested by law enforcement or child protective services. Exams are completed onsite at the Children's Justice Center in an environment designed with children in mind.
Why Medical Exams Matter
Purpose of the Exam
Forensic medical exams help evaluate and treat children who may have experienced physical or sexual abuse.
Examinations are comprehensive and carefully conducted in a child-friendly setting. The evaluation includes a medical history and a non-invasive, head-to-toe physical exam.
When there are concerns of sexual abuse, the exam may include treatment for sexually transmitted infections and other testing. Following a report of acute sexual assault, forensic evidence may also be collected.
Medical staff may order X-rays or laboratory tests to aid in the evaluation. All evaluations consider both the physical and emotional effects of child maltreatment.
Equally important is the reassurance children receive in knowing their bodies are okay after abuse has occurred.
Child-Centered Care
The medical evaluation is about more than identifying physical findings. The process considers the child's physical and emotional well-being and provides reassurance in a supportive environment.
Before Your Visit
What to Expect
Knowing what happens during the appointment can help caregivers and children feel more prepared.
About Two Hours
A medical evaluation typically lasts approximately two hours.
Documenting Findings
Findings may be photographed using a DSLR camera or colposcope for detailed interpretation and expert review without requiring repeat exams.
Trauma-Informed Care
The medical team seeks permission from the child at each step and explains the process throughout the exam.
Coordinating Your Child's Care
Medical history is collected from the parent or caregiver, including information about the child's primary care doctor, so the medical team can help coordinate care.
For Parents & Caregivers
How to Prepare Your Child
Simple, reassuring explanations can help a child understand what to expect during the medical exam.
Explain that the exam is to make sure their body is okay and healthy.
Reassure your child that the exam will not hurt.
Let your child know that they, you, and the nurse can ask and answer questions at any time.
Tell your child that the nurse will explain everything step by step.
Remind your child that they can ask to stop at any time.
We're Here to Help
Questions About Medical Exams?
Contact the Iron County Children's Justice Center for information about medical services or other resources available to children and families.