Client: “This made me feel so much better.  I was scared to even come to authorities about this, but this entire staff made me feel loved and respected.”

We opened our doors in October of 1996 to serve victims of sexual assault in the greater Albuquerque area.  The Collaborative was founded with the participation of the New Mexico Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs, multiple law enforcement agencies, rape crisis center, district attorneys office, advocates and local hospitals.  It was the desire of these organizations to provide victims of sexual assault prompt and appropriate care.  The Program provides support and treatment for a sexual assault victim in a calm, quiet and safe setting. In February 0f 2010 we began offering a similar medical/forensic exam to victims of domestic violence.    Visits to the emergency department are not necessary prior to visiting SANE however, the nurse examiner might determine that injuries are serious enough to justify a visit to the emergency department and will make a referral. Program Goals  To protect the sexual assault  or domestic violence victim from further harm. To provide treatment forsexually transmitted infections. To evaluate pregnancy risk and offer prevention. To assess, document and provide care for injuries. To appropriately refer victims for immediate and follow up counseling and medical care. To provide timely, thorough and professional forensic evidence collection, documentation, and preservation. To photo document injuries To provide testimony in a court of law if needed. To provide follow up care, education and resource referral.