The surgery is committed to providing a safe, comfortable environment where patients and staff can be confident that best practice is being followed at all times and the safety of everyone is of paramount Importance.
A chaperone is an independent person, appropriately trained, whose role is to independently observe the examination/procedure undertaken by the doctor/health professional to assist the appropriate doctor-patient relationship.
All patients are entitled to have a chaperone present for any consultation, examination or procedure where they feel one is required. Wherever possible we would ask you to make this request at the time of booking your appointment 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. However, occasionally it may be necessary to reschedule your appointment.
Friends or family members can be present in the room in addition to a formal chaperone, but often cannot act as the formal, impartial chaperone themselves as they are not trained in the role.
Please note that your healthcare professional may also require a chaperone to be present for certain consultations in accordance with recommendations from our regulated bodies.