Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment The child safety team at Mission Children's Hospital provides medical evaluations for nearly 700 children each year who have allegedly been abused or neglected. Mission's program is part of a statewide network of child abuse specialists and serves one of the largest areas--20 counties. Mission's forensic practitioners provide consultation to the most complex cases involving suspected neglect or abuse of children from birth to 21 years of age. The program works closely with law enforcement officials, social services agencies and child advocacy centers throughout western North Carolina. The child safety team at Mission Children’s Hospital is one of eight recognized state programs that have been identified as providing advanced training for child abuse evaluations. There are no comparable services in western North Carolina. Referral for evaluation is made by the Department of Social Services (DSS), a law enforcement official, emergency department staff or a physician. Child Safety Team Investigator Referral Form Child Safety Team Referral Form For questions about our Child Abuse prevention and treatment please call the Mountain Child Advocacy Center located at Mission Children’s Hospital: 828-213-9824