TAMIU-SANE Provides LMC with Critical Tools Expanding Forensic Medical Care

Texas A&M International University’s Advanced Nurse Education–Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (TAMIU-SANE) Program has partnered with Laredo Medical Center (LMC) to expand access to forensic medical care and provide local training, certification, and renewal opportunities for Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners.

Funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the TAMIU-SANE Program was established in 2018 to increase the number of certified forensic nurses across South Texas. As part of its latest support, the Program provided LMC with critical tools used in sexual assault medical exams: a colposcope and a forensic photography kit.

The LT-300HD colposcope, valued at over $8,800, features high-definition imaging, green-filtered lighting to improve visibility of blood vessels, anti-glare lenses, and ergonomic design. The forensic photography kit, valued at $1,149, includes a 20-megapixel, high-definition camera, measurement tools, and documentation materials, all stored in a durable nylon field-ready case.

The equipment and program support were made possible through HRSA's Advanced Nursing Education–SANE Program, with funding support from U.S. Rep. Henry Cuéllar.

Congressman Cuéllar said the funding underscores a broader effort to advance health care access and improve outcomes for all in South Texas.

“The federal funding I secured helped make this project a reality by expanding access to justice and compassionate care for survivors of sexual assault," he said, "Through the TAMIU-SANE Program’s partnership with Laredo Medical Center, we are building local capacity to deliver expert, trauma-informed forensic care right here in our community. This equipment ensures survivors no longer have to travel far to receive the high-quality medical attention they deserve. I will continue working to bring federal resources to South Texas that improve health care access and outcomes for all.”

TAMIU-SANE Program recently provided LMC with critical tools used in sexual assault medical exams: a colposcope and a forensic photography kit. Pictured are TAMIU-SANE Program co-principal investigators and administrators, TAMIU representatives, LMC representataives and SANEs, and TAMIU-SANE Program community partners. 

Laredo Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Jorge Leal thanked TAMIU for donating the forensic equipment to support the hospital’s Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program stating that as a designated Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) site in Laredo, this equipment will enhance the care provided to survivors of sexual assault—right here in our community.

"This donation is more than equipment—it’s an investment in the healing and dignity of survivors," Leal said, "We’re especially proud that our SANE nurses are TAMIU graduates, making this contribution a meaningful full-circle moment of care and service. We appreciate TAMIU's continued support in advancing both healthcare education and patient care in the region."

Dr. Robert Moran, TAMIU-SANE Program director and principal investigator, emphasized the importance of the partnership and new equipment for the community.

“This collaboration is a significant milestone in improving the quality of care for sexual assault survivors in our community,” he said, “Having these advanced tools available locally means survivors, especially children, will no longer have to endure the added trauma of traveling long distances for vital care.”

Dr. Marivic Torregosa, Co-Principal Investigator of the TAMIU-SANE Program, said the Program is grateful for the support of its partners.

"For the first time, the City of Laredo now has access to a local Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANEs) training and certification program, as well as renewal opportunities, and we are immensely grateful for the support from our funding partner, all our community partners and for the vital collaboration with Laredo Medical Center," she said.

Laredo Medical Center has conducted forensic exams since 2019. With the addition of the new equipment, the hospital will advance its ability to document findings and collect forensic evidence.

Since launching its SANE program, nurses at LMC have completed 282 forensic medical exams. The hospital is now equipped to serve survivors of all ages.

Since its 2018 launch, the TAMIU-SANE Program has trained 130 registered nurses and supported 100 certifications in sexual assault forensic nursing. It continues to expand under federal funding, helping nurses across South Texas gain training and credentials to serve patients of all ages.

The TAMIU-SANE Program works with SANEs, trauma specialists, healthcare providers, law enforcement, domestic violence shelters, advocacy groups and the district attorney’s office to support a coordinated, trauma-informed response to sexual assault and domestic violence. The program offers HRSA-funded training at no cost to registered nurses in Texas.

To register for training or request additional information, please contact María Del Rosario Benavides, program manager, TAMIU-SANE Program, at 956.326.2575, email maria.benavides@tamiu.edu or visit https://www.tamiu.edu/conhs/sane/index.shtml