Civil Justice Practitioners

Medical and Counseling Benefits

The medical and emotional harm caused by a sexual assault may result in significant financial cost. According to OVC's Report to the Nation for fiscal years 2007–2008, nearly $70 million from the Crime Victims Fund was spent in support of sexual assault victims nationwide, including medical expenses—the most paid for any type of victimization except domestic violence.⁴¹

Basic medical care costs include medical examinations, mental health counseling, and prescription drugs (including medications for the prevention or treatment of sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy and anti-depressants). A victim who bills his or her medical insurance for the cost of HIV prophylaxis, or for treatment of depression or posttraumatic stress disorder, may experience escalating insurance premiums and coverage exclusions in future plans. These outcomes in turn may lead to long-term disqualification for life insurance and other coverage.