Overview
- Mayor Kirk Watson, who announced the plan Tuesday, said Ascension Seton, Baylor Scott & White, St. David’s and Brave Alliance will ensure sexual-assault forensic exams continue as SAFE winds down its program.
- SAFE expects to send termination notices to partners, a step CEO Pierre Berastaín said would close Eloise House, which operated on about $3.1 million a year and handled roughly 95% of county exams.
- SAFE previously said it needed about $1.7 million to keep Eloise House open, and the nonprofit plans to continue some services through the end of May with some ceasing as soon as June 8 without new funding.
- The three hospital systems said they will coordinate a smooth transition with Brave Alliance, which pledged 24/7, victim-centered coverage and plans to secure enough nurses and staff for the region.
- Advocates note Brave lacks an Austin community-based exam site, raising concerns about where exams will occur, and they warn hospital-based care can involve longer waits and potential facility bills even though the exam itself is free.