CHRISTUS Health opens 50:20 Clinic to provide specialized care for survivors of violence

CHRISTUS Health is expanding access to compassionate, trauma-informed care with the opening of its new 50:20 Clinic, a specialized follow-up care clinic dedicated to supporting survivors of all types of violence in Southeast Texas.

More than one in three women and one in six men experience sexual violence, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"Survivors deserve a place where they feel safe, supported and empowered throughout their recovery," said Rachel Thomas, nurse practitioner at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health System. "The 50:20 Clinic gives us the opportunity to walk alongside patients throughout their healing journey, providing accessible, reliable care and helping them access the resources they need every step of the way."

The 50:20 Clinic is inspired by Genesis 50:20, a Bible verse reflecting the belief that healing, hope and restoration can emerge from even life's most difficult experiences.

This clinic provides specialized follow-up care for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, human trafficking, elder abuse, child abuse and other forms of interpersonal violence. Services include medical follow-up evaluations, forensic care coordination, counseling referrals, safety planning and connections to community support resources.

Referrals are welcomed from physicians, emergency departments, the Department of Health and Human Services, law enforcement agencies, victim advocacy organizations and other community partners to help connect patients with continued medical evaluation, healing resources and compassionate support.

The CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Foundation has committed $1.5 million to help fund the construction of the clinic and support ongoing patient care. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) services are not typically reimbursed by insurance, so philanthropic support plays a critical role in sustaining these specialized programs.

"The generosity of our donors and sponsors continues to make a lasting impact on healthcare in our region," said Teri Hawthorne, executive director of philanthropy for the CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Foundation. "Their support makes it possible for us to invest in programs like the 50:20 Clinic, providing compassionate, specialized care for some of our community's most vulnerable patients. Philanthropy helps ensure these essential services remain available for years to come."

The 50:20 Clinic is intentionally located in a discreet setting to protect patient privacy. Patients may be referred to the clinic following care in the emergency department, where they can receive specialized follow-up services in a safe, confidential environment.