Ongoing Help for Sexually Abused

Re the editorial, “Easing Trauma of Rape Victims,” July 5:

As an advocate for the Child Abuse Services Team, a multidisciplinary center that responds to child sexual abuse in Orange County, [I believe] it is important to remember that sexual abuse treatment does not just involve a one-time examination.

Having medical facilities that can respond efficiently and sensitively to both adults and children who have been sexually abused is highly desired. However, the goal of all these programs should be in working holistically with the victim. This holistic approach includes crisis intervention (not just a one-time response) therapy, coordinated efforts with both the law enforcement and children or adult social services and follow-up medical exams in a nonemergency setting.

Medical facilities may view patients in terms of potential revenue. It is hoped that as new centers in Los Angeles County open to serve their adult rape victims, they do not try to generate additional revenue by handling children who are currently being served holistically by existing multidisciplinary teams.

In Orange County, there is a coordinated effort to help sexually abused victims. The Child Abuse Services Team handles the children and Martin Luther Hospital in Anaheim handles the adults. Both centers have physicians and nurses who have specialized training in handling victims with sensitivity and quality medical care. If the Child Abuse Services Team (not a 24-hour facility) medical examiners are unable to be reached for an emergency examination of a child victim, Martin Luther Hospital becomes their backup facility. Los Angeles County should try this coordinated, compassionate approach for their sexually abused victims.

MARIANNE GILLISPIE

Orange