Mt. San Rafael Hospital is providing a vital point of care for survivors of violence through its Sexual Assault Nurse Examination (SANE) Program, housed in the hospital’s Emergency Department. The program offers medical‑forensic examinations and a range of supportive services for patients who have experienced sexual assault, intimate partner violence, non‑fatal strangulation, and child or elder abuse. Services include medical treatment, evidence collection where indicated, individualized safety planning, survivor education, and referrals to community resources.

A key local partner is Advocates Against Domestic Assault, which maintains a 24/7 crisis line at 719‑846‑6665 and can be connected to patients through the hospital. By linking clinical care with advocacy and crisis services, the program aims to address both immediate medical needs and the longer-term safety and support needs of survivors.

The availability of SANE services in the Emergency Department matters for public health and community safety. Timely medical‑forensic exams can document injuries, collect evidence when appropriate, and provide necessary treatments such as prophylaxis for infections and vaccinations. Beyond clinical interventions, the program supports safety planning and education, which are important steps for preventing further harm and helping survivors navigate legal, social, and health systems.

For a largely rural county such as Las Animas, having these services locally reduces barriers that can prevent survivors from seeking care. Access to a trained SANE team in the hospital emergency setting means patients do not always have to travel long distances to receive specialized, compassionate care. That can help decrease delays in treatment, improve the chances of effective evidence preservation when desired, and lower the emotional burden on people who already face trauma.

Sustaining and expanding SANE services requires ongoing institutional resources, trained personnel, and coordination between healthcare providers and community advocacy organizations. From a policy perspective, investment in training for SANE nurses, stable funding for hospital programs, and strong partnerships with local advocacy groups are essential to maintain timely, trauma‑informed care for survivors.

For residents and caregivers in Las Animas County, awareness of this local resource is an immediate step toward safety and recovery for those affected by violence. Individuals in need can access medical care and advocacy through Mt. San Rafael Hospital’s Emergency Department, and can reach Advocates Against Domestic Assault at the 24/7 crisis line, 719‑846‑6665.