Regional Child Protection Center
1215 Pleasant Street, Suite 303
Des Moines, IA 50309
515.241.4311

If you suspect a child is being physically or sexually abused or neglected, call the Department of Human Services Child Abuse Hotline at 1.800.362.2178.

Regional Child Protection Center

The professionals at the Regional Child Protection Center (RCPC) work closely with community organizations to protect children. The RCPC enables a multi-disciplinary team of professionals to work together in the investigation, treatment and prosecution of child abuse cases in central Iowa.

The RCPC brings together a team of specialists skilled in the medical and psychosocial assessment of abused children. Additional pediatric specialists at Blank Children's Hospital are available for consultation and medical treatment as needed. Most importantly, these services are all offered in an easy to access, child-friendly environment with professionals who put the child's health, well-being and safety first.

Diagnostic Services

• Medical evaluation, including:
  - General physical exam
  - Forensic exam with colposcopy (sexual abuse exam)
  - Documentation of physical abuse or neglect
  - Case consultation and service referral
• Psychosocial assessment:
  - Forensic interview with child victims or child witness to a violent crime
  - Evaluation for perinatal and/or environmental drug exposure, including:
  - Assessment of birth defects
  - General physical health
  - Neurodevelopmental assessment
• Foster care placement physicals

Additional Programs and Outreach Services

• Expert witness court testimony
• Legislative consultation for child abuse and neglect issues and drug exposed infants
• Public education and child advocacy

Benefits of a Child Protection Center

• Immediate follow-up to child abuse reports
• Efficient medical and mental health referrals
• Reduction in the number of times a child has to tell their story
• Increased successful prosecution
• Consistent support for child victims and their parents or caregivers