Chaperones

A chaperone is a person who is present usually during a physical examination and acts as a safeguard for all parties by witnessing continuing consent of the procedure.

If you are undergoing an intimate or intrusive examination and would like a chaperone present, even just to provide reassurance, please make the receptionist aware at the time of booking the appointment or ask the clinician before they begin the procedure.  The clinician will ask you if you would like someone else present, however respect, explanation, consent and privacy are often sufficient.

We can provide chaperones who are trained clinicians or you are very welcome to bring a person with you, although they must be over 16 years old.

If you are uncomfortable at any point, either with the procedure or the chaperone, please ask the clinician to stop and other arrangements can be made.

Giving Consent for Treatment

You have the right to accept or refuse treatment that is offered to you, and not to be given any physical examination or treatment unless you have given valid consent. If you do not have the capacity to do so, consent must be obtained from a person legally able to act on your behalf, or the treatment must be in your best interests.

Your valid consent (agreement to the course of action) is needed for the treatment that’s offered to you before any physical examinations or treatment can be given. If you haven’t given your consent, you can accept or refuse treatment that’s offered to you.

It’s important to be involved in decisions about your treatment and to be given information to help you choose the right treatment. When making treatment choices, you’ll often discuss the options with your doctor or another healthcare professional.