Methods of torture are limited only by the fiendish fantasies of those whose business it is to break others down. Physical effects are both acute and chronic. Physicians may see survivors with symptoms and disabilities related to their torture experiences. Across the world a network of torture treatment centers is loosely linked together in the task of trying to assist individuals and communities in picking up the pieces after all sense of basic trust has been lost. SI has recently opened a Center for Survivors of Torture in the World Affairs Center building to provide low fee comprehensive physical and psychological diagnosis and treatment for individuals and their families.
Rehabilitation includes referral assistance with social services, vocational and legal concerns.
An active program of community outreach with many agencies offering care for refugees has been established. Volunteers Needed Survivors International needs volunteer physicians to assist in primary and specialty care for survivors of torture. Members of the San Francisco Medical Society are invited to join SI's growing network of clinicians to assist us in providing this care. Additionally, SI offers medical evaluations for asylum applicants to asses possible physical and psychological evidence of torture and to establish a well-founded fear of persecution. Political asylum enables survivors of torture to escape their persecutors and to rebuild their lives.