This article presents a qualitative study on the implementation of the Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Telehealth (SAFE-T) program in rural communities.
This study examines multidisciplinary perceptions of pre-implementation barriers and Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Telehealth (SAFE-T) program impact using qualitative methods. Implications for the implementation of telehealth programs to support access to quality SA care are considered. Access to quality sexual assault (SA) care in rural communities is limited by challenges surrounding building and sustaining a skilled SA nurse examiner workforce. Telehealth can facilitate access to expert care while cultivating a local sexual assault response. The Sexual Assault Forensic Examination Telehealth (SAFE-T) Center aims to decrease disparities in SA care by providing expert, live, interactive mentoring, quality assurance, and evidence-based training via telehealth. (Published Abstract Provided)