ARKANSAS CHILDREN S HOSPITAL - ARKANSAS CHILDREN S HOUSE

Days: Monday through Friday.

The Team for Children at Risk (TCAR) is our hospital program for children who are suspected victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse, or neglect. The team is comprised of a nurse practitioner, physician abuse specialist, and a social worker. TCAR assesses, examines, and makes reports and recommendations on children suspected of maltreatment. Another component of the ACH abuse program is the Arkansas Children’s House (ARCH) which provides a homelike atmosphere for children to receive comprehensive, forensic medical exams related to child maltreatment.

The more comfortable setting minimizes trauma for children who must undergo examinations for sexual abuse. The House also offers the opportunity for community collaboration in investigating suspected child maltreatment cases through the use of facilities such as an interview room with a one way mirror and videotaping capability, consultation and conference rooms. Referrals to ARCH or TCAR may be made by physicians, law enforcement or the Department of Human Services.

Initial evidentiary evaluations in cases of suspected child abuse (both physical and sexual) are performed in the Arkansas Children’s House (ARCH). Physicians, specialty nurse, intake coordinator and social workers comprise the staff. Referrals are from law enforcement agencies, the Arkansas Department of Human Services, prosecuting attorneys, courts and physicians. The children receive comprehensive evaluations, including colposcopy with photo documentation, in cases of suspected sexual abuse. Physical, social and emotional problems common to abused children are identified, and crisis intervention and appropriate referrals are provided. The ARCH is a partnership between Arkansas Children’s Hospital and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Department of Pediatrics.