Chaperone Policy
The practice has a Chaperone Policy which is designed to protect both patients and staff from abuse or allegations of abuse and to assist patients to make an informed choice about their examinations and consultations.
A copy of the practice policy is available upon request. Posters informing patients of chaperones are located in reception and each consulting room in a number of languages.
Patients and Chaperones
All patients are entitled to have a chaperone formal or informal present for any consultation, examination or procedure where they feel one is required. An informal chaperone may be a family member or friend.
Formal Chaperone
On occasions, you may prefer a formal chaperone to be present, i.e. a trained member of staff. Wherever possible we would ask you to make this request at the time of booking so that arrangements can be made and your appointment is not delayed in any way.
Where this is not possible we will endeavour to provide a formal chaperone at the time of request. Your healthcare professional may also require a chaperone to be present for certain consultations in accordance with our chaperone policy.
Confidentiality
The chaperone will only be present for the examination itself, and most discussion with the patient should take place while the chaperone is not present.
Patients should be reassured that all practice staff act in accordance with a strict code of conduct relating to confidentiality.
If you require a chaperone to be present during your appointment please contact the practice in advance.