If you have been sexually assaulted...

Within the Last 72 Hours

You have just experienced a life changing event. Asking for help is a strong and important step in your recovery.

Call Our 24/7/365 Hotline: 205-860-SAFE(7233)

The Tuscaloosa SAFE Center office is open Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm; however, services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

We will meet you within one hour of your call.

Interpretation services are available 24/7. We have access to professional interpreters for over 200 languages, including American Sign Language (ASL). Consent forms and discharge materials are also available in Spanish and other commonly spoken languages in our area.

What is the process?

We understand that coming to the SAFE Center can feel overwhelming. Below is what you can expect when you arrive.

Contacted by a SANE

During office hours (Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm), you may walk in. Calling ahead is encouraged so we can prepare for your arrival.

Outside of office hours, you must call our 24/7 hotline before coming to the center. While exams are available 24/7, our nurses are on call and not physically in the building at all times.

Once you call, the nurse will ask a few questions about your safety and arrival time and help you prepare for your visit.

Arrival at TSC

Unless you have severe injuries, your care can take place at our office at 1601 University Blvd E, Suite 150. If you have severe injuries, call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency department.

If you are at a hospital due to medical injuries, we can coordinate with hospital staff to provide a forensic exam there when appropriate.

When you arrive, you will be met by a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE). If available, a medical advocate will also be present to support you throughout the process.

We will review your reporting options and answer any questions.

In certain situations, such as when the survivor is a minor or vulnerable adult, Alabama law requires healthcare providers to make a report. If a report is legally required, we will explain this before moving forward.

What to Expect During the Exam

Before the exam begins, the nurse will review consent forms with you. You will only sign for the portions of the exam you agree to.

You remain in control at all times. You choose what happens to your body, what is assessed, and whether evidence is collected. You may withdraw consent or ask to stop at any point.

The exam may include:

A discussion of your health history and what occurred
A head-to-toe assessment to check for injuries
Evidence collection, if you choose

If appropriate, the nurse will also offer medications to help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy.

Before leaving, the nurse will review discharge instructions with you, including information about medications received, follow-up care, and when to seek additional medical attention.

You will receive written information to take home. You are not expected to remember everything, and instructions can be reviewed again during an optional follow-up appointment.

You will have the opportunity to shower, change into new clothing, and receive snacks and comfort items before you leave.

We will also discuss counseling options, support services, and any safety planning needs.

Before You Leave