Child Advocacy

Most Maryland counties have child advocacy centers (CACs) to coordinate the evaluation of children suspected of having been sexually abused. Some include physical abuse as well. The focus is on establishing whether abuse occurred and who was responsible. In addition, children and parents may be referred for mental health and other services. Typically, Child Protective Services (CPS) and law enforcement work collaboratively, and, increasingly CACs include a medical evaluation.

Our Division has contracts with Anne Arundel and Howard counties to provide the medical component. In addition, our students and residents often attend the Baltimore City CAC to learn about the evaluation of child sexual abuse.