Chaperone Policy

What is a chaperone?

A chaperone is an independent person, appropriately trained, whose role is to observe independently the examination/procedure undertaken by the doctor/health professional to assist the appropriate doctor-patient relationship.

A chaperone may be a healthcare professional or a trained non-clinical staff member. A family member or friend is not permitted to act as a chaperone but they may be present during the procedure/examination if the patient is content with this decision.

The expectations of a chaperone are that they should:

  • Be sensitive and respect the patient’s dignity and confidentiality
  • Reassure the patient if they show signs of distress or discomfort
  • Be familiar with the procedures involved in a routine intimate examination
  • Stay for the whole examination and be able to see what the doctor is doing, if practical
  • Be prepared to raise concerns if they are concerned about the doctor’s behaviour or actions

Who is a chaperone for?

All patients are entitled to have a trained chaperone present during their consultations or their clinical examination.  Medical examinations can, at times, be perceived as intrusive by the patient so having a chaperone present protects both the patient and staff member of Hampstead Group Practice.

Page last reviewed: 22 October 2025
Page created: 17 December 2020