The practice is committed to providing a safe, supportive and respectful environment for all patients.
What is a chaperone?
A chaperone is an impartial, appropriately trained member of the practice staff who can be present during a consultation or examination. Chaperones are offered to safeguard the patient, clinician, and practice.
When will a chaperone be offered?
A chaperone will be offered for:
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Any intimate examination
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Any consultation or examination where the patient or clinician feels it is appropriate
Patients may request a chaperone at any time, regardless of the gender of the clinician.
How to request a chaperone
Please inform the receptionist or clinician if you would like a chaperone present. We will make every effort to provide a chaperone, although this may occasionally result in a short delay to your appointment.
Who can act as a chaperone?
Chaperones will be members of the practice team who have received appropriate training. Family members or friends are not usually considered suitable to act as formal chaperones, as they may not be able to act in an impartial manner. Please note; our chaperones could be male or female, if you have a preference, please state this at the time of your request.
Declining a chaperone
Patients are free to decline the presence of a chaperone. If a chaperone is declined, this will be documented in the medical record. Patients may also withdraw consent or ask for the examination to stop at any time.
Confidentiality and dignity
All chaperones understand the importance of confidentiality, dignity, and respect during examinations and consultations.
If you have any questions regarding the practice chaperone policy, please speak to a member of the practice team.