Chaperone Policy

Introduction

At Yorkshire Wellness Clinic, we are dedicated to providing healthcare services that are respectful, dignified, and considerate of our clients’ needs and privacy. This Chaperone Policy outlines the procedures for offering chaperones during medical consultations and examinations, particularly those of an intimate nature, to ensure the safety, comfort, and protection of our clients and staff.

Why is a Chaperone Needed?

Consultations, examinations, and investigations can be distressing experiences for some clients. We recognise that some examinations, particularly those considered intimate, can be particularly intrusive. In such cases, the presence of a chaperone can offer reassurance.

A chaperone may be required for either the patient’s comfort or the practitioner’s assurance.

Offering a Chaperone

• • Our Chaperone Policy will be available through patient information leaflets and on the clinic’s website.
  • Clients will be informed at the time of booking their appointment that they can request a chaperone. Appointments will be arranged at a time when a chaperone will be available if requested at the time of booking.
  • It is essential to note that in the majority of cases, a chaperone will not be readily available due to the healthcare worker being a lone worker.

If a client requests a chaperone at the time of the appointment, and one is not immediately available, the appointment will not proceed. Instead, it will be terminated and rescheduled for a time when a chaperone will be available.

Chaperone Training

All clinic staff will have a basic understanding of the role of a chaperone and the procedures for raising concerns. Staff members designated as formal chaperones will receive training to develop the competencies required for their role. This training may be provided externally or in-house by an experienced member of staff. Chaperones must meet the expectations outlined in the GMC guidance, which states that chaperones should:

• • Be sensitive and respect the client’s dignity and confidentiality.
  • Reassure the client if they show signs of distress or discomfort.
  • Be familiar with the procedures involved in an intimate examination.
  • Stay for the entire examination and have a clear view of the healthcare professional’s actions, where practical.
  • Be prepared to raise concerns if they have reservations about the healthcare professional’s behavior or actions.

Chaperone training will cover:

• • The meaning of the term “chaperone.”
  • The necessity for chaperones during specific examinations.
  • The rights of the client.
  • The role and responsibilities of chaperones.
  • The policy and mechanism for raising concerns.

Responsibilities of Chaperones

Chaperones at Yorkshire Wellness Clinic play a vital role in ensuring the comfort and safety of clients during intimate examinations. Their primary responsibilities include:

• • Offering reassurance to clients if they display signs of distress or discomfort.
  • Familiarity with the procedures involved in an intimate examination.
  • Maintaining sensitivity to and respect for the client’s dignity and confidentiality.
  • Remaining in the examination area during the entire process and ensuring a clear view of the healthcare professional’s actions, where practical.
  • Being ready to raise concerns if they observe any behavior or actions by the healthcare professional that cause reservations.

Documentation

The use of a chaperone during an appointment will be documented in the client’s records. This documentation will include the identity of the chaperone if used, their role/title, and confirmation of the client’s request for a chaperone.

Lone Workers and Chaperones

Due to the nature of the business, the majority of the time a chaperone will not be readily available. If the healthcare worker feels that they require a chaperone for either their comfort or the client’s but one is not immediately available, the appointment will be terminated and rescheduled for a time when a chaperone will be available.

Documentation

The use or non-use of a chaperone will be documented in the client’s records. If a chaperone is utilised, their name and role will also be recorded, ensuring transparency and accountability in the client’s care. This documentation safeguards the client’s choice and the clinic’s commitment to maintaining a professional and respectful healthcare environment.

Compliance and Review

This Chaperone Policy is subject to regular review to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with regulatory requirements. Staff members are expected to be familiar with this policy and adhere to the outlined procedures in all client interactions. Compliance with this policy is essential to maintaining a respectful and professional healthcare environment at Yorkshire Wellness Clinic.

Last updated: 01/11/2024