In collaboration with Vail Health, Eagle Valley Behavioral Health and Bright Future Foundation, Colorado Mountain Medical launched Eagle County’s first and only Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE)/Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE) program to ensure victims of sexual assault can receive immediate medical and emotional attention without leaving the community.
The moments directly after a sexual assault occurs are crucial for evidence collection and a medical forensic examination. This process can be traumatizing, especially if there are barriers to receiving treatment.
SANE/FNE personnel are registered nurses who completed additional education and training to provide specific and comprehensive care to survivors of sexual assault. Having a local SANE/FNE program in Eagle County ensures that victims can receive immediate attention and the compassionate care they deserve.
Services not only include the physical examination but also behavioral health support. A Bright Future Foundation advocate provides exam support on site, as well as post-assault follow-up and introduction to Bright Future Foundation’s wrap-around services such as behavioral health care.
• Since the launch of the program on May 1, 2021, Bright Future Foundation advocates have supported 10 victims of sexual or physical assault through the collaborative Victims First Care program.
• 100% of victims choose to engage in Bright Future Foundation’s behavioral health services following their assault.
To learn more about the program visit mybrightfuture.org/victimfirstcare