Dr Knox and Partners Chaperone Policy: Information for Patients

Our practice is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and respectful environment for all patients. This policy outlines your right to have a chaperone present during your appointment.

1. Your Right to a Chaperone

All patients are entitled to have a chaperone present for any consultation, examination, or procedure where they feel one is required. You can request a chaperone for:

·         Intimate Examinations: These include examinations of the breast, genitalia, or rectum.

·         Any Procedure: You may request a chaperone if you feel vulnerable or would simply like a witness for any other type of physical contact.

2. Who is a Chaperone?

A chaperone is an impartial, trained member of the practice staff (such as a nurse or trained non-clinical staff member).

·         Impartiality: While you are welcome to bring a friend or relative for emotional support, they are not considered "impartial" and cannot act as your formal chaperone.

·         Confidentiality: All staff acting as chaperones are bound by strict patient confidentiality.

·         Training: Chaperones have undergone training and background checks (DBS) to ensure your safety.

3. What to Expect

·         The Offer: Your clinician will offer you a chaperone before any intimate examination, regardless of the gender of the doctor or patient.

·         The Role: The chaperone will usually stand where they can observe the examination while respecting your dignity. They are there to support you, ensure the procedure is conducted appropriately, and raise concerns if necessary.

·         Privacy: You will always be given privacy to undress and dress, and will be kept covered as much as possible.

4. How to Request a Chaperone

·         When Booking: Ideally, please mention that you would like a chaperone when booking your appointment so we can ensure a staff member is available.

·         During the Appointment: You can still request a chaperone at any point during your consultation or examination.

5. What if a Chaperone is Unavailable?

If a trained chaperone is not available at the time of your request, we may need to reschedule your examination for another day. We will only proceed without one in a life-threatening or urgent medical emergency.

6. Your Right to Refuse

You have the right to refuse a chaperone. If you choose to decline, the clinician will record this in your medical notes. In some cases, if the clinician feels a chaperone is essential for safety, they may explain why they are uncomfortable proceeding without one and offer an alternative appointment or clinician.