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Hospital Response

Our trained hospital response advocates provide 24/7 in-person support at Kootenai Hospital for individuals impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault. We’re here to offer emotional support, assist with paperwork, and help connect survivors to resources and ongoing care.

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Hospital Response Advocacy Program

Available 24/7. Safety, dignity, and choice are our top priorities.
Text - (208) 449-7228
Email - safety@SafePassageID.org

Our Hospital Response Advocacy Program ensures that survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and other trauma are never alone. We work in close collaboration with the skilled forensic nursing team at Kootenai Health to provide immediate, compassionate support to individuals undergoing forensic exams.

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Our trained advocates are available 24/7 to accompany survivors during hospital visits, offering emotional support, information about the process, and guidance on next steps. Whether someone chooses to report the assault or not, our services are confidential and survivor-centered.

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Safety, dignity, and choice are our top priorities. 

Be Part of Our Mission

If you're interested in volunteering as a hospital advocate, get more information by clicking the button below.

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FAQ

Q: How long does a forensic exam take?

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A: Forensic exams typically take between 3 to 5 hours, though this can vary depending on the nature of the assault, the number of samples needed, and the survivor’s physical and emotional needs. Survivors are encouraged to take their time and ask for breaks as needed.

Q: Do I have to make a report to law enforcement if I get an exam?

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A: Providers must alert local law enforcement of any underage patients who present with indicators of abuse and patients who are there for domestic violence.
Specifically for SANE exams (sexual assault nurse exams), patients who are 18 years of age or older, have four main options available in terms of evidence collection and reporting:
  • Option 1: law enforcement report and evidence collection
  • Option 2: anonymous report and evidence collection
  • Option 3: medical care without evidence collection
  • Option 4: client can decline care

Q: Can I have an advocate with me during the exam?

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A: Yes. Our trained advocates can be present throughout the exam to provide emotional support and help you understand your options. 

Q: How soon should I be seen after a sexual assault?

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A: Evidence for a sexual assault exam can be collected up to 120 hours after the assault for patients 14 and older and 72 hours for those under age 14. Other services can still be provided even if outside that window.

Q: When will I get the results of the evidence collection?

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A: DNA and toxicology evidence is collected and sealed by the Forensic Nurse Examiner at Kootenai Health. It is then submitted as evidence to law enforcement and sent to the Idaho State Crime Lab.
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Kootenai Health does not receive results from these collections. Once results are available, the law enforcement agency handling the case is notified. Be aware that anonymous kits are not submitted for testing. An evidence kit cannot be tested if no report is made to law enforcement.
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You will be given a sexual assault kit number after the exam, where you can view the current status of your kit.
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