Ruby Memorial Hospital remains available for those seeking help and medical attention due to a sexual assault. Victims have a right to have a medical forensic examination up to 96 hours (four days) after the assault. In Morgantown these are administered by Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner nurses at Ruby and the cost of these exams are waived for WVU students with WVU ID.
“Support professionals in the field were picking up on uncertainty among students about whether COVID-19 restrictions meant they could seek help at the hospital,” said Amy Kittle, assistant director for Prevention and Education in the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Equity Assurance office.
“Ruby’s ER department has implemented safety protocols, including requiring masks. Students may bring one support person with them or request that an advocate be called,” Kittle said. “Obtaining a SANE exam is safe and, as always, confidential. Students can obtain the exam and treatment without it being reported to law enforcement or the university’s Title IX office. The nurses can advise the students on their options for reporting the assault.”
Students can ask questions and seek support by texting or calling WVU’s 24 hour anonymous hotline at 304-906-9930.
Find more information on resources available in Morgantown and on other WVU campuses.