Chaperones.

  • Does it cast aspertions over all GPs.
  • Is it only males who need to be chaperoned?
  • Will it be only female chaperones for females?
  • Confidentiality issues.
  • Heterosexual bias?
  • Who should they be? Nurse –what if no nurse. is it a nurses job?
  • OOH – what if no chaperone.
  • For intimate examination?What about chest auscultation.
  • Are chaperones allowed to view examinations?
  • Should patient ask for choice of chaperone?
  • What if patient says no?Can GP insist on chaperone?
  • May protect Doctor more than patient.
  • Patient may bring along there own chaperone, often for support.


Patients should be offered a chaperone!