- We are committed to providing a safe comfortable environment, where patient and staff can be confident that the best practice is being followed at all times and the safety of everyone is paramount importance
- A formal chaperone is a person who serves as both a witness for the patient and the medical practitioner, as a safeguard for both parties during a medical examination or procedure and is a witness to continuing consent of the procedure. Family members or friends cannot act as a formal chaperone
- An informal chaperone is still acting as a witness during a medical examination/procedure, however with written consent from the patient and clinician they can be a family or staff member that has not received training.
Why do I need a chaperone?
There are two considerations involved in having a chaperone to assist during intimate examinations: namely for the comfort of the patient and the protection of the doctor or nurse from allegations of impropriety
The rights of the Patient
- All patients are entitled to have a chaperone present for any consultation, examination or procedure where they feel one is required
- Patients have the right to decline the offer of a chaperone
- However, the clinician might feel that it would be wise to have a chaperone present for their mutual protection, for example and intimate exam in a young adult of the opposite gender
- If the patient still declines the doctor will need to decide if they are happy to proceed in the absence of a chaperone. This will be a decision based on both clinical need and the requirement for the protection against any allegations of improper conduct
Appropriately trained chaperones
Appropriately trained chaperone is defined as a member of staff who has completed the practice training program and has been assessed as a competent member of the practice clinical team. Currently all receptionist members and clinic manager are chaperones trained.
When a chaperone is not available:
- We try and avoid this happening. Patients are asked at time of boking if they require a chaperone.
- Otherwise, if a chaperone is not available, we will reschedule.
