Medical Resources

Medical Treatment

After an experience of unwanted sexual contact, you may consider seeking medical treatment, such as:

  • STI treatment and testing and/or discussing the risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with a health professional
    • Preventive treatment for certain STIs can be most effective within 1-3 days of the sexual contact
    • Find more information about post-exposure prophylaxis (preventative treatment for HIV) such as where to find it and how to pay for it 
  • Forensic exam to collect potential physical evidence and determine additional necessary treatment (also called a sexual assault forensic exam, or ‘rape kit’) Learn more about the Forensic Exam.
    • A forensic exam may be conducted up to 5 days after the incident
    • To preserve evidence one should not shower, bathe, brush teeth, or change clothes before visiting a hospital for a forensic exam
  • Discussing the risks of pregnancy resulting from a sexual assault and/or contraception methods and alternatives with a health professional

You can have a support person or people of your choice such as a friend, family member, or advocate accompany you throughout the medical care process. You can also contact the Title IX Coordinator or Crisis Intervention Services (1-800-270-1620) to request someone to come with you.

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Medical Centers

Central College has partnered with Pella Regional Health Center (PRHC) to provide patient care. The hospital and clinic are conveniently located within a mile of campus. Students who do not have access to a vehicle may contact (641) 628-9000 to make arrangements for transportation to and from their appointments.

Pella Regional Health Center
404 Jefferson Street
Pella, Iowa 50219
pellahealth.org

For more information, you can contact Assistant Dean Kristi Leonard, liaison to PRHC, on campus in 232 Maytag Student Center or at (641) 628-5633.

Additional Central Campus and Community Resources.

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Forensic Exam

What is it?

The Sexual Assault Forensic Exam, also called a ‘rape kit’, is an exam that checks for and documents physical evidence of sexual battery, sexual assault, or rape, and may be conducted up to 5 days after the incident. To best preserve evidence, one should not bathe, shower, brush teeth, or go to the bathroom until after the forensic exam. Evidence from a forensic exam can be used in prosecuting sexual assault cases through the criminal justice system.

Where can I get one?

Pella Medical Center - Emergency
405 Monroe Street
Pella, Iowa 50219
(You can call Crisis Intervention Services for more information at 1-800-270-1620)

How does it work?

A sexual assault nurse examiner, (SANE) or doctor will begin the exam by asking about your medical history and health, and may ask about the characteristics or details of the assault. A physical exam will be performed and samples from various parts of the body may be collected to test for DNA. A toxicology test may also be done to test for drugs in the system, and clothing may be kept as evidence.  At the hospital they may ask for your insurance, however, there is no charge for a rape kit and you do not need to provide insurance.

Will the police be notified?

Yes, the police are notified to come and pick up the exam. You do not have to provide your name on the exam. The police are NOT automatically given your name. No investigation is kick-started just by the police picking up an exam. You are given the option to speak to the officer. If you choose not to, they will come pick up the exam after you have left.

How are forensic exams used?

After the exam, the doctor or nurse will document the findings in a medical record, which can later be subpoenaed to assist in the legal process. The record will be saved with the police department for 14 years.

Can I have someone with me?

You can have a support person (or people) of your choice such as a friend, family member, or advocate accompany you throughout the medical care process. You can also call Crisis Internvetion Services at 641-673-5499 or 1-800-270-1620 to speak with someone confidentially and request an advocate to accompany you to receive medical care.

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