Chaperone Policy
1. Policy statement
Yorkshire Aeromedical is committed to providing a safe, respectful and professional environment in which patients and staff can be confident that best practice is followed at all times. The dignity, comfort and safety of patients and healthcare professionals are of paramount importance.
This policy sets out our approach to the provision of chaperones during medical examinations and procedures.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
- Provide a clear and consistent framework for the use of chaperones
- Safeguard the dignity, privacy and comfort of patients
- Protect both patients and healthcare professionals from misunderstandings or allegations of inappropriate behaviour
- Ensure transparency in relation to availability and any associated costs
3. Scope
This policy applies to all clinical activity undertaken by Yorkshire Aeromedical in the provision of aeromedical examinations and associated services.
4. Offering and requesting a chaperone
Patients may request the presence of a chaperone for any intimate examination or where they feel they would benefit from additional support during an examination.
Patients are encouraged to request a chaperone at the time of booking wherever possible. Advance notice allows appropriate arrangements to be made.
Information regarding the availability of this policy is displayed in the consulting room and is available on request.
5. Availability and appointment scheduling
Yorkshire Aeromedical is a small independent practice and does not routinely have a chaperone present during all clinical sessions.
If a patient requests a formal chaperone provided by the practice:
- There may be an additional fee of £80 to cover the cost of arranging an appropriate trained chaperone.
- The originally booked appointment date may need to be changed in order to accommodate the availability of a suitable chaperone.
Patients are advised to make such requests at the time of booking wherever possible to minimise disruption.
If a chaperone is requested during the appointment, we are happy to accommodate this. However, it is likely that the appointment will need to be rearranged for another day to allow a suitable chaperone to be arranged. In this situation, the applicant will be required to pay for the rearranged appointment as well as the chaperone fee.
Patients are also welcome to be accompanied by a relative, friend or support person if they prefer, although this individual does not replace the role of a trained formal chaperone where one is clinically indicated.
6. Role of the chaperone
A formal chaperone is present to:
- Provide reassurance and support to the patient
- Observe the examination to ensure it is conducted appropriately and professionally
- Assist if required in maintaining patient dignity
Formal chaperones understand their role and responsibilities and are appropriately briefed to undertake this function.
7. Documentation
Where a chaperone is present, the following will be documented in the patient's medical record:
- The patient's request for a chaperone (if applicable)
- The identity and role of the chaperone
- Confirmation that the examination proceeded with the chaperone present
If a chaperone is offered and declined, this will also be recorded.
8. Feedback and concerns
Patients are invited to provide feedback on their experience. Any concerns relating to chaperoning or the examination process will be addressed promptly in accordance with Yorkshire Aeromedical's complaints procedure.
9. Review
This policy is effective from 2 January 2026 and will be reviewed annually, or sooner if required, to ensure continued compliance with professional standards and best practice guidance.