MDDUS has handled a number of cases where doctors carrying out an intimate examination have later been accused of inappropriate behaviour, but the use of a chaperone can help minimise this risk. It is important to offer a chaperone even where doctor and patient are the same gender, and that key details are recorded in the patient note.
The following resources will help you learn more about how and when to use chaperones and the importance of having a practice chaperone policy:
- Chaperones checklist - This checklist has been designed for use by GPs and practice managers, and links with two MDDUS risk blogs: Reducing risk: do you offer a chaperone? and Reducing risk: when a patient refuses a chaperone.
- CHECKLIST - Chaperones - Essential Knowledge - This checklist provides a guide to the knowledge and training requirements for an effective chaperone in general practice and complements the ‘Chaperones’ checklist for managers and GPs.
- On-demand webinar: Chaperones in GP practice. This webinar is aimed at GPs and managers in general practice.
You can view the latest MDDUS advice on chaperones within our advice library here.
This page was correct at the time of publication. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.
