OLYMPIA – When someone is a victim of sexual misconduct or abuse, they require care from health professionals. When the abuse or misconduct comes from a health professional, that care is far more complex and requires very specialized handling in order to be successful. Thanks to HB 1779 authored by Representative Kevin Van De Wege, D-Sequim, victims will have better care from those assigned to investigate the crimes.
Currently, health care investigators do not have specialized training in how to deal with victims of sexual misconduct. Occasionally, investigators can cause unintentional harm to the victims by asking questions that seem like they are blaming the victim, perpetuating feelings of shame and guilt. Because investigators and health professionals want to avoid any unintended harm, training on how to properly understand the complex emotions victims are feeling is necessary.
“Unfortunately there are situations where victims are placed in the worst possible position, being mistreated by someone they are supposed to trust—their health care provider,” said Rep. Van De Wege. “In those situations, having well-trained and prepared investigators who can be sensitive to the victims’ needs while getting to the bottom of the case is absolutely imperative. I’m glad both the House and the Senate were able to pass this bill and I look forward to it becoming law.”
HB 1779 passed the State House of Representatives with a vote of 92-5 and the State Senate by 46-2 and will be sent to Governor Inslee for his approval.