Violence Medical Unit
| Unit Presentation | Research and Training | Unit Services |
1. After being attacked, I consulted the Emergency Department of Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV). Why did the emergency doctor tell me to visit the Violence Medical Unit ?
The Emergency Department of the CHUV made an assessment of the lesions/injuries you presented and treated them. However doctors within that department do not prepare a medical report of "blows and injuries". The Violence Medical Unit, which is a specialist medico-legal consultancy, is responsible for preparing medical reports and taking photographs of lesions/injuries.
2. What is the purpose of a medical report ?
A medical report is a document in which a doctor (or nurse) describes very precisely the lesions (bruises, wounds, scratches, etc) presented by a patient who has been the victim of aggression. The medical report will be useful to the victim if he or she wishes to file a complaint. But even if they do not wish to file a complaint, this document may be important subsequently in connection with other formalities.
3. Is there a time limit for preparing a medical report ?
No, there is no time limit for having a medical report drawn up, but naturally it is best done as soon as possible after the aggression has taken place. In addition, the Violence Medical Unit works in collaboration with the Emergency Department of the CHUV, enabling us to have knowledge of the observations, examinations and treatments received there for inclusion in the medical report.
4. Is an appointment necessary ?
Yes, an appointment must be made by phoning 021 314 14 14 between 8am and midday. The appointment will be arranged quickly within 24 to 48 hours. This means you won’t have to wait at reception.
5. Is the consultation covered by accident insurance ?
No, the consultation at the Violence Medical Unit is not covered by accident insurance (or sickness insurance) but it is covered by the canton of Vaud.
6. Can I come for a consultation even though I don’t live in the canton of Vaud ?
Yes, any person living in Switzerland, regardless of their nationality or residency status in Switzerland, can consult the Violence Medical Unit.
7. Can I come for a consultation even though I don’t live in Switzerland ?
Yes, a person staying temporarily in Switzerland who is the victim of violence in Switzerland can consult the Violence Medical Unit.
8. How long does the consultation last ?
A consultation at the Violence Medical Unit lasts between 60 and 90 minutes.
9. Where is the Violence Medical Unit ?
The Violence Medical Unit is located on the ground floor of the University Medical Outpatient building (Policlinique Médicale Universitaire), Rue du Bugnon 44, on the same level as the CHUV Emergency Department (CHUV map). The easiest way to get there is to take the M2 (CHUV stop).