Photo By Keisha Frith | Womack Army Medical Center forensic healthcare examiners pose for a group photo during...... read more read more
FORT BRAGG, N.C. Womack Army Medical Center’s (WAMC) Forensic Healthcare Program recently conducted its annual competency training, convening more than 30 forensic nurses, medical providers, and legal experts to refine the clinical and courtroom proficiencies essential for the comprehensive care of trauma victims.
The training focused on strengthening both the medical precision and legal readiness required of forensic healthcare examiners. These professionals execute a critical role in patient care, documentation, and expert testimony during military justice proceedings.
A primary component of the training involved hands-on clinical stations, including internal pelvic examination competency. This module was facilitated by Nichole Trent, a WAMC physician assistant with more than 20 years of practice experience, including three years of dedicated service to the forensic health team. “We’re making sure we’re all performing the best exam possible for our patients, especially those who have experienced trauma,” Trent explained. “I’m sharing tips to minimize discomfort and ensure the exam is done with skill, compassion, and consistency.”
To bridge the gap between clinical execution and psychological support, instructors emphasized trauma-informed communication techniques. This included protocols such as explicitly narrating each step of a physical examination prior to execution, thereby empowering the patient with a sense of predictability and control. Kelly Taylor, Forensic Healthcare program manager, emphasized that the overarching objective of the training was to foster community trust and reinforce the holistic nature of forensic care.
"The courage it takes for a survivor to engage with our team is tremendous; nothing short of remarkable, and we may only have one opportunity to help," Taylor said. "We train and practice at the highest level, and our examiners work tirelessly to ensure we develop an individualized plan of care for every patient. This is not a one-time encounter; this is a journey that we will take with our patients."
An equally critical component of the curriculum addressed courtroom preparation. Legal professionals guided examiners through the procedural realities of military justice, clarifying the presentation of medical findings in court and outlining protocols for serving as expert witnesses.
“This training is essential,” said Maj. Jessica Hayashida, Deputy Chief of the Federal Military Litigation Division. “Expert testimony, and even fact witness testimony, requires familiarity with trial advocacy, expectations of the legal system, and what to anticipate during courts-martial. Regardless of which side they testify for, forensic healthcare examiners must understand their role and how their expertise supports the pursuit of justice.”
Addressing the attendees, Col. Stephanie Mont, WAMC hospital commander, acknowledged the substantial operational and emotional demands of the specialty, expressing profound gratitude for the team's dedication. “You basically create that link between healthcare and the justice system,” Mont told attendees. “It is not an easy thing to do as a healthcare provider, but you are a critical component of supporting people in their most vulnerable time.”
The WAMC program continues to be recognized for its interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring every examiner remains clinically, emotionally, and legally prepared to support victims. "We get up every day trying to make the lives of our patients better," Taylor concluded. "If I could say one thing to anyone needing our help, it would be: we believe you, you are safe here, and you do not have to walk through this alone."
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault or trauma, professional support is available 24/7. Contact the DoD Safe Helpline at 877-995-5247 or visit SafeHelpline.org for confidential, anonymous support. Immediate assistance is also available via the Fort Bragg SHARP Hotline or the Womack Army Medical Center Emergency Department.
| Date Taken: | 07.09.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 07.10.2026 11:30 |
| Story ID: | 569656 |
| Location: | FORT BRAGG, NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 213 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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