1. I made the CPS report: now what?

2. Objectives
To understand the responsibility of the ED provider once a report has been made to child protective services (CPS) including:
What and how protected health information can be shared with CPS and law enforcement
Writing affidavits
Testifying in court
Preparation
Fact versus expert witnesses
Best practice while on the witness stand

3. What information can I provide to police/CPS
HIPAA rules allow for sharing of protected health information with CPS in the setting of suspected child maltreatment.
CT law designates law enforcement personnel as having authority to investigate child maltreatment so you can share with them as well.

4. Best practices for information sharing
You are obliged to share needed information.
You set the boundaries for when and where.
How to manage this when off shift.

5. Affidavits A written version of your medical opinion.
Lay language is critical
An exercise in ”what is important.”
Your child abuse friends are here to help.

6. Court testimony Expert versus fact witnesses. How to prepare
Call the person who subpoenaed you.
It is that person’s responsibility to prepare you for testimony.
What it is like on the witness stand.