Frequently Asked Questions - Forensic Medical Exam

The Forensic Medical Team was founded by Dr. Sean Dugan, Pediatric and Adult Forensic Medical Examiner, and Child Abuse Pediatrician.  Dr. Dugan additionally holds the position as Medical Director of the CCFMTC, which includes training healthcare professionals and SART Teams in the state of California on how to conduct forensic exams.

Forensic medical exams at the CLC use state of the art medical equipment.  Forensic medical exams are scheduled at the Children’s Legacy Center upon referral from Law Enforcement, Children Services, or referral following a Forensic Interview.

In general, children benefit from knowing what to expect, especially when it comes to new experiences. We recommend letting the child know they will be visiting a safe place that will include a medical exam that is a normal doctor visit; which will include vitals, and photos will be taken, as needed.  Caregivers hold an integral part of the process, and can help their children by talking to them about giving the Forensic Care Team (FCT) permission to provide the exam and talking to them about the importance of the pictures to help capture any physical concerns.  The goal of a Forensic Medical Exam, to provide a child friendly, trauma informed exam and minimize trauma to the child.

During the exam, and with the permission of the child; one family member can be in the exam room.  Forensic Medical Exams can vary in length of time, at the Children’s Legacy Center, there are several waiting areas for the family which includes a family waiting room, kids’ playroom, and teen room for the family during the time the exam is taking place.  Our Family Advocate is available during the time the family is waiting and can provide support, as needed.

Following the Forensic Medical Exam, the Forensic Care Team (FCT) Medical Examiner will review findings with the family, and answer any follow-up questions the family may have.  The Forensic Care Team will obtain contact information, and order imaging, labs, or medications, as needed.
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If imaging or labs are ordered, the FCT will call the family/caregiver with the results, which typically results are received in about a week following the medical exam.

The Forensic Examiner and Investigative Team will have access to the photos taken during a Forensic Medical Exam and will not appear in the child's medical chart.
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Photos that are taken during the Forensic Medical Exam are part of the investigative process, and can be used in court, as needed.

The Children’s Legacy Center is a clinical site for Shasta Community Health Center Care Team, which means the Forenisic Care Team sees patients locally, and out of the area.  All patients will be a CLC patient for their Forensic Medical Exam, regardless of primary establishment with a Primary Care Physician or Pediatrician.