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1. What is SANE?

SANE is the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program which provides victims of rape and sexual assault with expert, confidential medical care and emotional support.

2. What is the SANE Unit?

The Sane Unit is a separate unit in the Emergency Departments of both Nassau University Medical Center (NUMC), and Northwell Health at North Shore University Hospital at Manhasset, specifically designed for interviewing, examining, treating, counseling and comforting adult victims of sexual assault. It consists of a private entrance, sitting room, examination room and bathroom, including shower.

3. Who supports the SANE Unit?

SANE is a joint effort of the Special Victims Bureau of the Nassau County District Attorney's Office, the Special Victims Squad of the Nassau County Police Department, NUMC and Northwell Health, and the Center for Rape and Sexual Assault Services of The Safe Center LI and is funded in part through the New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services.

4. Who can use the SANE Unit?

Females and males, at least 17 years old, who do not require immediate medical attention, but have recently been sexually victimized.

5. How does someone get to the SANE Unit?

A person may go directly to the SANE Unit in the Emergency Department of the hospital or request the assistance of the Nassau County Police.

6. When does the Unit operate?

The SANE Unit is available 24 hours, 7 days a week.

7. What happens at the SANE Unit?

The SANE program provides expert medical attention to sexual assault victims in a private area in the emergency department of both NUMC and Northwell Health. A forensic nurse with a physician provide medical assistance and information and perform an examination to collect forensic evidence that can be used in the prosecution of the offender.

8. What are your options?

• Call the police at 911.
• Call the Rape Hotline at 516-542-0404.
• Walk into the Emergency Room of NUMC or Northwell

9. Do I have to go through the examination alone?

You may go alone or have someone you trust accompany you to the SANE Unit. You can also request that a sexual assault advocate from the Coalition meet you there by calling 516-222-2293, or you may request an advocate when you reach the hospital.

10. What is a forensic nurse?

A forensic nurse is a registered nurse who has received intensive training in the examination of adult victims of sexual assault.

11. Do I have to prosecute the offender if I use the SANE Center?

The decision to make the police report rests with the victim. However, if a police report is made, an investigation will follow. Medical care should always be sought and a victim can choose to make a police report anytime.

12. What fees will be charged to patients who use the Unit?

If available, costs may be paid through private insurance, or by the Crime Victims' Board, if the survivor reports the crime to the police.

13. Who will have access to medical records or evidence collected?

Medical records are protected by confidentiality.

14. Where would I take a child who has been raped or sexually assaulted?

The SCAN Unit at the Nassau University Medical Center is a special setting for the examination and interview of victims under 17 years of age. For information call 516-572-4894.