Lions Gate Hospital (LGH) in North Vancouver will offer a new groundbreaking service, round-the-clock, starting this fall. This specialized medical unit, the first on the North Shore, will support survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and human trafficking.

Previously, patients had to travel to Vancouver General Hospital, forcing them to leave their community to obtain medical treatment. The unit will provide various medical services including X-rays, bloodwork, emergency contraception, antibiotics, and urine drug screening. Forensic assessments document injuries and collect survivor accounts, and DNA testing for legal purposes will also be available. Evidence can be stored on-site for those undecided about reporting to the police.

Victims are recommended to seek care within one week of the assault for optimal evidence collection. No referrals are needed; patients can present directly to the emergency department.

Launched in April with a team of 12 female forensic nurse examiners, the program currently operates Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some extended availability on evenings and weekends. The hospital is working to raise community awareness about this vital service.