Forensic Department
Forensic Department
Leep Family Mishawaka Medical Center Emergency Room
5215 Holy Cross Pkwy.
Mishawaka, IN 46545
574.335.2532
Daisy and John L. Oliver Plymouth Medical Center Emergency Room
1915 Lake Ave.
Plymouth, IN 46563
574.335.2532
Because we care for all who need it, the Saint Joseph Health System Forensic Department helps Emergency Department patients who have been victims of:
- Domestic violence
- Strangulation
- Adult sexual abuse
- Pediatric sexual abuse
- Child physical abuse
- Elder abuse
Abuse, including sexual assault, is complex and often difficult to talk about. Sexual assault in particular does not discriminate based on gender, race, age, socio-economic status or sexual orientation, and is one of the most under-reported crimes. Our team is here to listen and offer options for each individual sexual assault survivor's healthcare needs and provide reporting options and resources to help them heal.
Services
Once checked in at the Emergency Department, patients receive extra care and follow-up in addition to the care they receive in the ED. Forensic nurse examiners provide medical forensic examinations to women, children and men who have been victims of abuse. Services are available 24 hours a day, every day of the year, at no cost.
Additionally, the Forensic Department also provides community outreach to the public, education to police, paramedics and other first-responders as well as training for RNs.
Our Team
Our group of highly trained professionals consists of clinical coordinators, educators and forensic nurse examiners. These registered nurses have completed specialized education and clinical preparation in caring for patients who have experienced sexual assault or abuse.
Resources
Family Justice Center of St. Joseph County: 574.234.6900 (SOS line 574.289.HELP)
Heminger House: 574.936.7233
Indiana Department of Child Services: 800.800.5556
National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888.373.7888 or text HELP or INFO to 233733.
Special Victims Unit of St. Joseph County: 574.235.7818
YWCA of St. Joseph County Women's Shelter: 574.232.9558
Local police departments
Elkhart City: 574.295.7070
Elkhart County Sheriff: 574.533.4151
Marshall County Sherriff: 574.936.3187
Mishawaka: 574.258.1678
Plymouth: 574.936.2126
South Bend: 574.235.9201
St. Joseph County Sheriff: 574.235.9611
Let us know how we can help you or your loved one. For more information, please contact the Forensic Department at 574.335.2532.