What’s the difference between a medical evaluation and a medical exam?

All children who receive services at the Delaware County Children’s Advocacy Center (DCCAC) will be offered a medical evaluation. Medical evaluations are conducted by a trained professional who has specialized training and experience examining children for possible abuse. During an evaluation, the professional will meet with your child in a private, comfortable medical room. The professional will talk to your child about his or her medical history, do a regular head-to-toe check-up, and talk to your child about any concerns or worries they may have about their bodies.

Based on information received during the investigation, it may be necessary to gather specific medical information from your child that cannot be obtained by conducting a general head-to-toe evaluation of your child. This process, called an exam, is only done on a very small number of children seen at the DCCAC. You will be informed if it is determined that an exam is necessary; staff will explain this process to you at that time. The exam is done in a gentle manner. The professional will explain each step to your child and make your child as comfortable as possible.

It is extremely important to understand that most children who have been sexually abused, even with a history of penetration, have normal exams. In determining if abuse has happened, the team does not rely on the exam alone. Oftentimes, children find having an exam helps them to know that their bodies are OK. The professional will take time to explain to your child the results of abuse to your child’s body. This is often an important step for your child in the healing process.

Many parents and caregivers feel more comfortable if their child is examined by their family doctor. The type of exam that may be necessary for your child to receive requires specific medical training; most family doctors and pediatricians send their patients to a trained professional with the expertise needed to conduct this type of exam.