Letter: An open letter from the Director of Curry Health Center

To the students, faculty and staff of UM,

In the past few months there have been a series of articles and meetings regarding sexual assault in Missoula, including the possible use of date-rape drugs in some assaults. I want to take this opportunity to provide some important information about date-rape drugs and also services available to students who experience sexual assault.

It is important to understand that date-rape drugs leave the system very rapidly and are most likely to be detected within 12 hours of ingestion, even sooner if possible. If you feel you have been drugged and are interested in being tested, do so as soon as possible.

First Step is Missoula's rape crisis center and is the expert in collecting forensic evidence. Curry works very closely with First Step and facilitates referral there when desired. Any survivor who even considers pursuing charges against the perpetrator, now or in the future, should go to First Step for evidence collection, including date-rape drug screening when appropriate. First Step will also provide the same services for those not intending to pursue charges or those who do not know the identity of the perpetrator. There is no out-of-pocket cost to the survivor for First Step services, regardless of whether forensic evidence is collected or the incident is reported to police.

Students can also have tests for date-rape drugs performed at Curry but the student will be responsible for the cost of testing and samples are not collected in a manner that would permit them to be used for evidence in legal proceedings.

As always, Curry Health Center provides an array of services for survivors of relationship violence and sexual assault. The Student Assault Resource Center (SARC) is the lead department in these services, providing advocacy, support and information for survivors, as well as their family and friends. The Medical Services and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) both stand ready to provide relevant clinical services if the survivor so desires. Just like at First Step, there is no out-of-pocket expense to survivors for Curry services in response to a recent sexual assault.

Services at Curry and at First Step are provided in a confidential manner, consistent with privacy laws related to health care and advocacy services. Survivors can be confident that their privacy will be protected and their wishes related to reporting will be respected. Events are not reported to authorities, either at UM or law enforcement. Should survivors wish to report, SARC can provide detailed information on reporting options and stands ready to provide advocacy and individual support throughout the process.

We all hope for the day when these services are not necessary—and we will continue to work hard to bring that about. But until that day comes, students at The University of Montana should know that at Curry Health Center they have a safe and caring place to seek help, be it advocacy, medical care or psychological support. 

If anyone has questions about Curry Health Center services please feel free to contact me at dbell@mso.umt.edu.

Sincerely,

Dave Bell, MD

Director, Curry Health Center