The Practice prides itself in maintaining professional standards. Patients have a right to request an impartial observer (a “chaperone”) for any procedure or examination.
This chaperone will be a member of staff with the appropriate training and safety checks. They will be available to reassure and raise any concerns on your behalf. If a trained chaperone is unavailable at the time of your consultation then your examination may be re-scheduled for another time.
You are free to decline any examination or chose an alternative examiner or chaperone. You may also request a chaperone for any examination or consultation if one is not offered to you. The GP may not undertake an examination if a chaperone is declined.
A chaperone:
- Maintains professional boundaries during intimate examinations.
- Acknowledges a patient’s vulnerability.
- Provides emotional comfort and reassurance.
- Assists in the examination.
- Assists with undressing patients, if required.