Chaperones

The doctors, nurses and other staff within this practice recognise the sensitive nature of intimate physical examinations. Patients may feel more comfortable if another person is present while they are examined. This applies to examinations of both sexes.

In some cases the doctor or nurse may decide it is appropriate for a third party to be present, although the patient must consent to this.

A patient may invite a friend or relative to act as a chaperone. Alternatively they may request a chaperone to be provided by the practice. All our staff have been trained to act as a chaperone and have completed a course on the subject Should any patient require a chaperone, for any examination, they should make their request known to the doctor or nurse.

In the event of a chaperone not being immediately available due to pressure of time or staff shortages, the examination may need to be deferred.

Any concerns regarding the conduct of an examination should be brought to the attention of the practice manager or one of the doctors or nurses.