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SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) Program

Need help?

Call the SANE Program at 608.417.5916 or go to the Meriter Emergency Department at 202 South Park Street in Madison.

Map and driving directions.

doctor holding patient's handSince 1988, Meriter’s Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program has provided care for sexual assault victims of all ages, races and populations. It is the only program of its kind in Dane County; however, SANE will help victims from any county. Located within Meriter’s Emergency Department, SANE provides care seven days a week.

Meriter recognizes this is a frightening, traumatic time for victims. Our SANE Program is dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care in a safe environment.

Expert Staff

The SANE Program is staffed by registered nurses who have advanced education and instruction in medical-forensic examination and in psychological and emotional trauma. SANE nurses are available to speak to groups and organizations and may also provide expert testimony in a court of law.

Care Provided

SANE’s philosophy of nursing empowers patients to determine their plan of care, including:

  • Emotional support
  • Physical examination and wellness check
  • Collection of medical-forensic evidence
  • Assistance with reporting the crime to police, when requested (mandatory reporting for children)
  • Assistance with concerns about sexually transmitted infection and pregnancy
  • Assistance with safety planning
  • Development of a medical follow-up plan

Fees/Insurance

Meriter will help patients from anywhere, not just Dane County, and regardless of ability to pay. Meriter accepts all commercial insurance providers such as Physicians Plus, Dean Health, Group Health Cooperative and Unity Health, as well as Medicare and Medicaid. If the patient does not have medical coverage, he or she may be eligible for assistance from the Crime Victim Compensation Fund or the Uncompensated Care Program through Meriter. A referral is not needed to be seen by a SANE nurse.

The SANE Program is a community effort financially supported by:

Visit the Meriter Foundation to support the important work this program provides to those in need.