A CAC medical exam is a head to toe physical exam that is completed by a trained medical professional with pediatric experience and child abuse expertise. Child victims of abuse who need immediate medical attention are referred to a local emergency room for evaluation and treatment. 

The purpose of a CAC medical examination is:

• To help ensure the health, safety and well-being of your child;
• To diagnose, document and address any medical conditions resulting from abuse;
• To differentiate medical findings that are indicative of abuse from those which may be explained by other medical conditions or caused by accident;
• To assess the child for any developmental, emotional or behavioral problems needing further evaluations and treatment and make referrals as necessary;
• To reassure and educate the child and non-offending caregiver(s).

For sexual abuse allegations, the CAC medical exam may also include – support and crisis intervention, documentation of physical findings, treatment and/or referrals for sexually transmitted infections, pregnancy and other non-acute medical concerns, and follow up care as needed to facilitate treatment and healing.