Frequently Asked Questions About the CAC
What is the Child Advocacy Clinic (CAC)?
The Child Advocacy Clinic is a specialty service at Valley Children’s that provides comprehensive services to children and their families through a multidisciplinary, child-friendly program. The program is dedicated to meeting the physical and emotional needs of children who are suspected of being abused or neglected.
Why is my child being referred to the CAC?
Your child is being referred to the CAC for a specialty medical examination to address potential concerns for child abuse and maltreatment. The CAC provides expert diagnostic, forensic and therapeutic evaluations as well as treatment services.
How is the CAC different from the emergency department?
Your child will be examined by a medical specialist (physician, nurse practitioner, or nurse) in the field of child abuse and maltreatment. The medical examination may include the use of a magnification device that does not touch or hurt your child.
Who will we see at the CAC?
Similar to other comprehensive medical examinations, your child will initially be seen by the patient care technician who will take your child’s vital signs and ask introductory questions. The medical provider will then complete the medical examination. You may also meet with a hospital social worker who will provide support and community referrals as necessary.
What should I tell my child (if age appropriate) about coming to the CAC?
Your child should be made aware that he or she will be seen by a doctor or nurse who will complete a check-up that includes looking at everything on their body, from the top of their head to the bottom of their toes and everything in between. This check-up is important to ensure that they are healthy and it should not cause pain.
Where is the CAC located?
The CAC is located at the Spruce Specialty Care Center:
1125 E. Spruce Avenue, Suite 101
Fresno, CA 93720
How do I contact the CAC?
The CAC may be reached at 559-353-6022. The CAC is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The CAC team is on-call and available 24/7 for emergencies.
Who does the CAC work with?
The CAC works with community members as appropriate. Collaborative partners include primary care physicians, emergency department physicians, nurses, advocates, law enforcement, social workers, etc. Information sharing may be mandated by law and is determined on a case-by-case basis