Medical Advocacy
Medical advocates provide compassionate, knowledgeable support, information, and referral services to survivors and their families in hospital emergency departments. In the immediate aftermath of rape, survivors face a host of emotional, medical, and legal decisions. An advocate can provide information to assist the survivor (and her/his family) in making the best possible choices.
What does a BARCC Medical Advocate do?
BARCC Medical Advocates are certified rape crisis counselors who provide information and support to the survivor and/or family at the hospital. Advocates provide support throughout the entire forensic exam if the survivor wishes. They can also be helpful with safety planning, arranging transportation, and with follow-up plans. Research has shown that survivors who have a rape crisis advocate present at the hospital are more likely to feel positive about the experience of going to the hospital. This is an important start to the healing process.
“The more I struggle to speak, the less power the rape, and its aftermath, seemed to have over me.”
24-hour hotline: 800.841.8371
