Riverview Health launches new Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program

On Thursday, Oct. 1, Riverview Health launched its new Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program, expanding access to specialized, trauma-informed care for survivors of sexual assault in Hamilton County and surrounding counties. The new program will provide patients with access to highly trained nurses who are specially equipped to care for survivors of sexual assault, conduct forensic examinations, collect evidence, and connect patients with critical community resources and support services.

The launch represents months of planning and collaboration across Riverview Health, led by Molly Beck, Manager of Emergency Services. Beck developed a phased approach that enables Riverview Health to begin serving patients sooner while building toward a comprehensive, around-the-clock program.

“Our team recognized an important need within our community and took action to create a program that provides compassionate, specialized care for survivors of sexual assault close to home,” Beck said. “This program reflects our commitment to ensuring patients receive expert clinical care in a safe, supportive environment during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.”

Over the past several months, Riverview Health has made significant progress in establishing the program. As part of the phased launch strategy, Riverview Health has already received all necessary SANE equipment, approved clinical policies, and established program workflows. The health system currently has two nurses fully trained in adult, adolescent, and pediatric SANE care, with an additional five nurses completing training through the IU Health didactic program. Program coordinator Jessica Boffing has also been working closely with community resource partners to prepare for the launch and strengthen support networks for patients.

Griffin

“The launch of Riverview Health’s SANE program is a significant step forward for our community,” said Tim Griffin, Hamilton County District 1 Councilman and Carmel firefighter. “In both public service and emergency responses, I’ve seen first-hand the importance of ensuring survivors have immediate access to specialized care. I’ve been a strong advocate for establishing a SANE program locally, and I’m proud to see Riverview Health lead the way in providing this essential service.”

The initial phase of the program, which began development this summer, will provide intermittent SANE coverage while recruitment and onboarding efforts continue. During this phase, Riverview Health will focus on ensuring operational excellence, strengthening relationships with law enforcement and first responders, and expanding staffing resources. Services will initially focus on adult patients with pediatric services following shortly thereafter.

Altman

“This achievement reflects the power of collaboration between healthcare providers, public safety partners, and community leaders,” Hamilton County Commissioner Christine Altman said. “We are grateful to Riverview Health for bringing this critical resource to the residents and families of Hamilton County.”

The SANE program represents another step in Riverview Health’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that meets the evolving needs of the community. To learn more, visit riverview.org.

About Riverview Health
Riverview Health is an independent, community-based health system offering comprehensive healthcare services throughout Hamilton County, in strategic partnership with Parkview Health to expand access to high-quality care and advanced clinical expertise. The system’s network includes a 156-bed hospital in Noblesville, a 16-bed hospital in Westfield, three additional combined ER and urgent care facilities, and 10 primary care locations. With expertise in more than 25 specialties, Riverview Health provides a full range of inpatient and outpatient services and is consistently recognized for clinical and service excellence. Most recently, Riverview Health was certified as a Great Place to Work® for 2026 and received the Culture of Good Community Impact Award for 2026.