Chaperone Policy
Aeroclinique Ltd. adheres to the guidelines published by the General Medical Council (GMC) and Royal College of Nursing and Midwifery (NMC) regarding intimate examinations and the use of chaperones.
These guidelines outline when and why an applicant (referred to as a patient) may require a chaperone and the considerations that should be given in these situations.
Purpose of a Chaperone
The presence of a chaperone during medical examinations is beneficial for both patients and staff.
According to GMC guidance, during intimate examinations, patients should be offered the option of having an impartial observer (a chaperone) present, regardless of the gender of the healthcare professional. Intimate examinations include those involving the breasts, genitalia, or rectum, and situations where the patient might feel particularly vulnerable, such as during undressing or dim lighting.
Offering a Chaperone
This policy is communicated through the clinic’s website, email correspondences and notices in the clinic room.
All patients should be routinely offered a chaperone during any consultation or procedure.
If an applicant wishes to request a chaperone we ask that this is requested in advance to accommodate your request.
This offer should be made clear before any procedure begins.
For children and young people, their parents, relatives, and carers should be informed about the chaperone policy and its importance. If a patient declines the offer of a chaperone, this should be recorded. If a patient requests a chaperone and none is available, they should be given the option to reschedule their appointment within a reasonable timeframe. If a delay is inappropriate due to the seriousness of the condition, this should be explained and documented.
Role and Training of Chaperones
A chaperone can be a clinical health professional, such as a nurse, or a specifically trained non-clinical staff member, such as a receptionist. The chaperone’s role should be clearly explained to both the patient and the person undertaking the chaperone role.
Staff members who act as formal chaperones must be trained to develop the required competencies.
Training includes understanding:
• The role of a chaperone
• The nature of intimate examinations
• The necessity of chaperones
• Patient rights
• Chaperone responsibilities
• Chaperones should position themselves within the screened-off area to effectively perform their role.
Policy and Raising Concerns
Clinical staff who act as chaperones will generally have a Disclosure check. Non-clinical staff who
act as chaperones may also require a Disclosure check, depending on their duties and patient
contact.
New staff should receive training on the appropriate conduct of intimate examinations.
All staff should understand the role of a chaperone and the procedures for raising concerns.
Training can be provided externally or in-house by experienced staff to ensure all formal chaperones understand their responsibilities.
Summary of Chaperone Responsibilities
A chaperone should:
• Be appropriately trained (health professional would be preferable)
• Be familiar with the examination or procedure
• Respect patient dignity and confidentiality
• Be present throughout the examination
• Have a clear view of the examination and hear the doctor’s communication
• Reassure the patient if they show signs of distress
• Be prepared to raise concerns about inappropriate behaviour or actions
By adhering to this policy, Aeroclinique Ltd. aims to ensure the comfort, dignity, and safety of all patients during medical consultations and procedures.