More than half of women and nearly one in three men in the United States have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact in their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control …
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More than half of women and nearly one in three men in the United States have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact in their lifetime, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
During Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Aspirus Health is emphasizing the critical need for compassionate, trauma-informed care for survivors. Through its Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program, Aspirus provides confidential medical care and connects survivors with essential resources to support their healing and recovery.
The Aspirus SANE program serves adolescents and adults, offering medical exams, forensic evidence collection (if desired), and advocacy support. Survivors remain in control of their care at every step.
"They've had their choices taken away from them," said Rhonda Knoblock, a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner at Aspirus Health. "So we want to give those back to them. If they decide they want us to collect evidence, we will. If they decide they don’t want us to, we won’t. But we want to be there for them to provide the resources and care they need to help them through this time."
Beyond medical care, survivors can connect with trained advocates who provide guidance and emotional support. These services are available at multiple Aspirus locations, making care more accessible, especially in rural communities.
"If they have to travel miles to see somebody, that can be a barrier that prevents them from seeking help,” Knoblock said. “Having these services in their own community increases the likelihood that they will come in.”
Aspirus remains committed to ensuring that all survivors, no matter where they live, have access to the care and support they need. Even for those who may be unsure about seeking an exam, Knoblock encourages them to reach out.
"I know they’re scared, but we urge them to come in and talk to us,” says Knoblock. “Even if they choose not to have an exam, we want them to know we are here to help, to provide them with resources, and to support them in their healing journey.”
