Under PREA 115.21, offering victims of sexual abuse access to forensic medical examinations at no cost is:

Under PREA 115.21, offering victims of sexual abuse access to forensic medical examinations at no cost is:

• A. Required
• B. Optional
• C. Not allowed
• D. Only during certain hours of operation

Answer: (A)

Providing access to a forensic medical examination at no cost is required. This means the facility must arrange and cover all costs for the victim’s medical evaluation, the forensic evidence collection (the rape kit), related testing, treatment directly tied to the exam, and any necessary follow-up care. The aim is to ensure immediate medical attention and preserve evidence without placing a financial burden on the survivor. The service should be offered promptly by qualified medical staff and is available even if the victim does not report the incident to authorities. It is not optional, not disallowed, and not restricted to certain hours.

Providing access to a forensic medical examination at no cost is required. This means the facility must arrange and cover all costs for the victim’s medical evaluation, the forensic evidence collection (the rape kit), related testing, treatment directly tied to the exam, and any necessary follow-up care. The aim is to ensure immediate medical attention and preserve evidence without placing a financial burden on the survivor. The service should be offered promptly by qualified medical staff and is available even if the victim does not report the incident to authorities. It is not optional, not disallowed, and not restricted to certain hours.