Techniques for collecting and analyzing evidence in rape cases have evolved over the last decade, as has the understanding of the psychological effects of sexual assault. But how health practitioners, law enforcement officers, prosecutors and others respond after a rape still varies widely across the country.

On Wednesday, the Department of Justice issued new national guidelines for forensic medical examinations in cases of sexual assault.

The recommendations, revised from those issued in 2004, are aimed at establishing voluntary standards for care when rape victims seek help at hospitals or other medical facilities. The standards will be mandatory for practitioners working in federal prisons or in the military.

The guidelines emphasize that the rape victim’s physical and emotional needs should take precedence over criminal justice considerations.