# Creation and Implementation of an Electronic Sexual Assault Record at the Geneva University Hospital

## TL;DR

This paper describes the creation of an electronic system for recording sexual assault cases in a Swiss hospital, improving data quality and coordination.

## Contribution

The novel contribution is the development and implementation of a standardized electronic sexual assault record integrated into an existing hospital system.

## Key findings

- The eSAR system significantly improved data completeness and reliability compared to paper-based methods.
- Implementation led to streamlined workflows and better interdisciplinary collaboration.
- The system was successfully used in 382 cases since its launch in 2022.

## Abstract

In Switzerland, sexual assault reports have historically been documented on paper, which limited standardization, completeness, and challenges to produce reliable statistics.

This study describes the development and implementation of an Electronic Sexual Assault Record (eSAR) within Geneva University Hospitals’ Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system, with the aim of improving data quality, documentation, and multidisciplinary coordination.

The eSAR was developed by a multidisciplinary team including forensic doctors, gynecologists, nurses (clinical and informatics), epidemiologists, and IT specialists. Its structure was based on existing hospital protocols and international recommendations. Variables were defined as “essential” or “highly recommended,” with structured fields to ensure completeness and comparability. Confidentiality was safeguarded through restricted access and regular audits.

The eSAR was launched in June 2022 and revised in 2023 after user feedback and training. Since implementation, 382 reports have been completed. Data quality improved substantially, with major reductions in missing information. The system also streamlined workflows and strengthened collaboration across specialties.

The eSAR improved documentation and data reliability, providing a replicable model for standardized sexual assault reporting in Switzerland.