NATIONAL SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH

Sexual assault is the most under-reported violent crime in the United States. One in six women in America has been the victim of attempted or rape in her lifetime. One in 33 men is a victim of this crime as well. Two-thirds of assaults are committed by someone the victim knows. 

April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Jackson Health System joins in the efforts to raise awareness about sexual violence and how to prevent sexual abuse. The Roxcy Bolton Rape Treatment Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital provides free sensitive, patient-centered, comprehensive, confidential care 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to all victims of sexual assaults.  The center is hospital based and staffed with Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners – (SANE) trained providers.

Jackson provides emotional and medical support to the victims of this crime and makes them aware that they’re not alone and we can help. Here’s what you should know in case you are the victim of rape:

• Don’t bathe or douche as this action may wash away evidence
• Save your clothing and put them in a brown bag
• Get medical attention immediately for your injuries internally and externally and to get preventive treatment for STDs and pregnancy. A medical examination also helps in  forensic evidence collection
• Report to the police
• Call the 305-585-RAPE (7273) Hotline.  The center answers confidential calls 24 hours, 7 days a week

Established in 1974, the Roxcy Bolton Rape Treatment Center is the only rape treatment center in Miami-Dade County. It is one of the few rape treatment centers in the country to provide a comprehensive approach to care and treatment of victims of sexual assaults. The center sees patients ages 12 and over. All free services are provided regardless of police involvement, which include:

• Hotline 305-585-Rape (7273)
• Medical Treatment/Forensic Evidence Collection
• Crisis Intervention
• Advocacy/Accompaniment
• Information and Referrals
• Community Awareness
• System Coordination
• Support Groups
• Therapy
• Prevention/Risk Reduction Education

The center also welcomes victims of sexual assaults who did who didn’t seek treatment in the past. They can still reach out to the rape treatment center for help.