OhioHealth is taking a significant step forward in its commitment to supporting survivors of sexual assault and other forms of interpersonal violence. This spring, OhioHealth implemented new forensic technology across more than two dozen emergency departments.
Last month, OhioHealth deployed Cortexflo camera systems from Fernico—a high-resolution imaging technology built specifically for forensic use. They are referred to as SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) cameras. OhioHealth has purchased devices for 26 care sites, including OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital, OhioHealth Emergency Care Ontario, the OhioHealth Ashland Health Center, and OhioHealth Shelby Hospital.
“This technology allows us to capture incredibly detailed images of injuries that may result from sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse and other violent acts,” said Sheree Ford, BSN, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P, Clinical Nurse Manager for Forensics at OhioHealth. “The level of clarity and precision we can now achieve will make a real difference in patient care and in the pursuit of justice.”
Cortexflo provides powerful capabilities and advanced features include:
• High-resolution imaging to detect micro-injuries, which can be crucial in sexual assault cases.
• Contrast filters to enhance faint injuries that might otherwise be missed in photographs.
• Alternative light source capability to detect dried bodily fluids such as semen, saliva and urine—critical evidence in many forensic cases.
• Secure image storage and encryption for safe handling and transfer of photographs during legal proceedings.
The system allows SANE nurses to zoom in closely on injuries, capture more accurate documentation, and support more comprehensive care for survivors.
According to Ford, the all-in-one features of the camera also speed up the evidence collection process, which can be uncomfortable and stressful for the victim. “You don’t have to adjust the equipment as frequently,” said Ford. “You can use the voice controls or you can tap on the focus grid and focus on the exact areas that you want. This cuts down the time it takes to take pictures, ultimately improving care for the patient.”
The OhioHealth Foundation worked in partnership with several local foundations to provide funding for the equipment. According to Erin Stine, senior philanthropy advisor for OhioHealth’s north region, the Richland County Foundation awarded $50,000 to support the technology at Ontario’s emergency department and Mansfield Hospital, the Shelby Foundation contributed $6,000 to support the equipment at Shelby Hospital, and the Ashland County Foundation contributed $13,659.65 towards the camera at the Ashland emergency department. Funds from the Ashland County Foundation came specifically from its Community Grant, Women’s Fund, and Women’s Fund Giving Circle.
“There’s something really special about the giving that happens locally,” said Stine. “To be able to give these survivors an experience where they feel seen and cared for was incredibly important both for the OhioHealth Foundation, as well as our local partners. We’re very good at taking care of our own.” By standardizing this advanced technology across its network, OhioHealth is strengthening its ability to support survivors and ensure compassionate, high-quality forensic care is available no matter where patients seek help.
For more information about the OhioHealth’s work to support survivors of sexual violence, please visit: SARNCO | OhioHealth.