Child Abuse Program Seen as a Model : * CAST Shows That Unified Efforts Are Essential to Ensure Safety for County’s Young

It is disheartening news that the number of Orange County families in which child abuse is suspected rises each year. But, there is one encouraging note: County hospitals and social service agencies are steadily improving their ability to deal with the problem.

A step forward was taken with the creation 2 1/2 years ago of the Child Abuse Services Team, a public-private agency that provides a “child-friendly” place where young victims of sexual abuse can be examined and counseled. CAST’s goal is to reduce the trauma to victims while gathering evidence that might be used to prosecute those responsible. But the well-being of the child is foremost. For example, interviews of the child are observed through a one-way mirror by law enforcement, social workers or others who need to know what happened. This procedure minimizes additional trauma that the child might feel.

More recently, Martin Luther Hospital Medical Center in Anaheim added to the county’s resources by opening an examining room for sexually abused children. It is called “The Safe Place.”

But child advocates say much more is needed. For one thing, county hospitals need to avail themselves more fully of CAST’s expertise. Also, hospitals should immediately establish monthly reviews of suspected abuse cases to assure that none fall through the cracks. Just five of the county’s 32 hospitals with emergency rooms have, or soon will have, such procedures. Also, hospitals in western and southern Orange County should follow the example of Martin Luther, which services North County cities.

CAST, however, is central to the county’s response to sexual abuse of children. Sited at the Orangewood Children’s Home in Orange--but not directly affiliated with that institution--CAST broke new ground when it drew together law enforcement, medical and social service personnel to assess sexual abuse cases.

The program was so admired that the state attorney general’s office last year designated CAST for a $141,000 grant. It was one of just three programs in the state chosen for a pilot project aimed at reducing emotional trauma for child-abuse victims during court proceedings.

CAST is supported by the county--a welcome demonstration of the supervisors’ commitment to help such children. It also receives grants and gifts from other government agencies and charities. It is a good example of what can be done when all unite to confront the abuse of children.