Crisis Assistance Response and Education
(C.A.R.E) and Victim Assistance
C.A.R.E.
Office
67 George Street
2nd Floor, Rooms 202 and 203
Phone: (843) 953-3390
Fax: (843) 953-2273
Email: CareVictimAssistance@cofc.edu
Appointments
Call 953-3390
Walk-in 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Emergency Team Response
Pager: (843) 724-3600
Medical Attention
In the aftermath of a sexual assault, one of the most immediate concerns is for the health and safety of the survivor.
A student who files a police report will be transported by the police agency to the nearest hospital facility authorized to conduct the rape protocol exam (also known as a “rape kit”). There is no charge for the rape kit examination providing the victim has filed an official police report with the appropriate law enforcement agency within the 72-hour window for collecting evidence. This medical examination gives law enforcement an opportunity to obtain any possible evidence necessary to support your case should you choose to handle this through the criminal justice process and treats any possible injuries, sexual transmitted diseases, possible pregnancy and medical follow up. Since rape protocol exams are specialized exams conducted by medical staff specifically trained in this area, not every hospital has the capability of performing a rape protocol exam. It is usual hospital policy to contact law enforcement if a person is seeking medical attention as a result of a sexual assault through the emergency room. Evidence collection for the rape kit includes:
- Photos of the physical trauma
- Head hair and pubic hair combings
- Fingernail scrapings
- Oral, rectal, and vaginal cultures and smears with specimens sent to crime lab for DNA testing and STI testing
- Blood draws for syphilis testing and crime lab testing
- Clothing worn at the time of the crime
Student Health Services (953-5520)
The following services are available to survivors of sexual assault who are treated at Student Health Services. Please note that evidence for prosecution cannot be collected at this facility.
- Examination and testing for STIs
- Access to morning after pill within 72 hours of the assault
- Pregnancy testing
- Referrals for further treatment and counseling
If you are unsure of what you what you want to do, C.A.R.E. Victim Assistance Specialists can review your options with you. (Emergency pager: 724-3600 Office: 953-3390)