Michigan State University has launched a free and confidential sexual assault healthcare program.
After three years of planning, Michigan State University launched its Sexual Assault Healthcare Program on campus Thursday. The center is the first of its kind in the Lansing area, offering trauma informed medical services twenty-four hours a day.
Tana Fedewa is the director of the Center for Survivors at MSU. She said the center will offer forensic exams and coordinate care for sexual assault survivors.
“What we wanted to do is just create a space that's for one survivor at a time to come in and be taken care of, and focus on themselves and their own physical and emotional needs and safety,” said Fedewa.
The center is grant funded and health insurance is not required. Fedewa said survivors will decide whether they want to involve the police.
“Nurses will be able to follow up with them related to medical needs, but we also have a social worker who's a care coordinator, who will follow up with all of the patients within a few days of their visit.”
The waiting room in the center will offer patients access to a shower, toiletries, self-care items and replacement clothing.
"The Sexual Assault Healthcare Program suite is designed to provide care for one patient at a time," Fedewa explained. "This program will first and foremost tend to the health and well-being of each person who seeks treatment."
Longtime Lansing area nurse midwife Sameera Shareef will lead the nurses conducting the specialized exams and an MSU Center for Survivors care coordinator will train and supervise volunteer medical advocates. Both advocates and nurses will be available around the clock to provide support.
The center is located at the Student Services Building on the corner of Circle Drive and Farm Lane on MSU's campus. COVID-19 safety guidelines are being enforced.