This clinic is held on Wednesdays at the Center for Disabilities and Development. Patients assessed in this clinic are referred to the University of Iowa by the Department of Human Services (DHS), law enforcement, physicians at UI Hospitals and Clinics, community physicians, parents, and foster parents.

Patients who are suspected victims of child abuse and neglect, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and neglect are referred to this clinic. In addition, some patients are referred to the clinic by DHS for a second opinion to verify a previous diagnosis from an outside medical facility. Patients who have been admitted to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics with a diagnosis of documented or suspected child abuse or neglect may be followed up at this clinic for evolution of injuries.

The typical evaluation at the Child Assessment Clinic includes an interview with the parent(s), caretaker or legal guardian of the child followed by a forensic interview of the child (documented by DVD camera), physical examination of the child utilizing colposcopy and videotaping for the genital examination, and laboratory or radiologic investigations as indicated.

Based on the results of this evaluation, the team physician, nurse and the social worker assess the need to file a report of suspected child abuse and neglect with DHS. If a report is to be filed, the parents or legal guardians are informed during the final staffing before they leave the clinic.

A comprehensive report by the Child Protection Program is attached to the child abuse and neglect reporting form of the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. These are faxed to the related Department of Human Services on the same day.