Chaperone Policy
At Talbot Medical centre we are committed to treating all patients with dignity, respect and privacy.
What is a chaperone? A chaperone is a trained member of our practice team who is present during an examination. Their role is to support you, provide reassurance, and help ensure that examinations are carried out professionally and respectfully.
When is a chaperone offered? We will offer a chaperone for any intimate examination, including examinations of the breasts, genital area or rectum. You may also request a chaperone for any examination if you feel it would make you more comfortable.
Your choice
You have the right to:
- Request a chaperone at any time.
- Ask for a chaperone of the same sex where possible.
- Decline a chaperone if you do not wish to have one present.
- Stop the examination at any time.
If you would like a chaperone, please let our reception team know when booking your appointment, or ask your clinician before the examination begins.
Children and vulnerable adults
A chaperone will always be offered for intimate examinations involving children, young people and adults who may be vulnerable or need additional support.
If a chaperone is not available
If a suitable chaperone is unavailable, your clinician will discuss the options with you. In most cases, the examination can be rearranged for another time when a chaperone is available, provided this is safe to do.
Our commitment
All formal chaperones at Talbot Medical Centre receive appropriate training and understand the importance of maintaining your dignity, privacy and confidentiality throughout your care.
If you have any questions about our chaperone policy, please speak to a member of our practice team.
