Child Abuse Assessments
A Resource to Keeping Children Safe
At CHRISTUS Health, our focus is on the safety and well-being of all patients, including children. If you suspect child abuse or neglect, reach out to us through a referral. Our goal is to provide accurate medical information through a comprehensive assessment to support the agencies investigating these concerns. We also aim to identify ways we can assist families in improving the health and safety of a child. Plus, we can connect families in need with the appropriate resources to meet these needs. Keeping children safe is a top priority.
Assessments & Evaluations
We do a thorough medical examination to determine any injuries that the child may have. If necessary, the doctor may order lab work, x-rays or any other tests needed to confirm or rule out abuse.
Our medical team will document photos of skin findings including bruises, lacerations, scars, and skin markings that may be confused with trauma. This documentation is then used to help confirm or rule out abuse.
When needed, our child protection team will conduct psychosocial evaluations of the child, parent, sibling, caregiver or witness of abuse.
Our doctors will provide the Child Protective Services caseworker with a complete report of the findings. That report will help CPS make the best decision for that child's safety and well-being.
When necessary, our professionals testify in court to explain their findings and to help the jury or judge make important decisions about the child's health and safety.
We offer additional services, including short-term counseling, physician consultations, mental health staffing, physical abuse and neglect staffing, as well as inpatient consultations.