A medical chaperone is an employee who is present during the portion of a visit that includes a sensitive examination, treatment or procedure. The chaperone's role is to ensure patient and provider comfort, safety, privacy and security during these sensitive encounters.
A medical chaperone is required during the sensitive portions of a visit, which generally includes examinations, treatments or procedures of the genitals, rectum or breast. Examples include:
- Pediatric examinations
- Examinations, treatments or procedure of the genitals, rectum or breast
- Sensitive encounters provided to a patient with a known history of sexual abuse
- Sensitive encounters provided to a vulnerable patient
- At the request of the patient or clinician during any visit and for any reason
Why does St. Peter's Health (SPH) have this policy?
SPH has a core value of keeping colleagues and patients safe, in every sense of the word. We feel this policy upholds our values. Additionally, providing chaperones during sensitive examinations is recommended as best practice by the American Medical Association and has been adopted by healthcare institutions throughout the country.
Can I request a chaperone for visits that are not sensitive in nature?
Yes. Patients may request a chaperone during any visit and for any reason. We commit to provide a chaperone when one is requested by the patient or clinician. If a chaperone is not available when requested, the examination, treatment or procedure may be rescheduled. To request a chaperone, simply tell your attending care team that you wish for a chaperone to be present.
Can I request a chaperone of a specific gender?
Patients may request a chaperone of a specific gender, and we will attempt to accommodate that request. If we are unable to accommodate, the patient may choose to move forward with the visit with a chaperone not of their preferred gender, or may reschedule to a time when sufficient staffing is available.
When does the chaperone enter/exit the examination?
The chaperone will only be in the examination room during the sensitive portion of the exam, unless the chaperone is also providing medical assistance to the clinician, or requested to stay by the patient, clinician or legal guardian/legal representative.
Can I decline a chaperone when one is required?
Yes. We are committed to providing chaperones in a way that is comfortable for our patients If you feel uneasy or you need more information about what will happen during your exam, please ask us. We are here to help you prepare for medical care that requires a chaperone. Chaperones are a healthcare best practice and assist both patients and clinicians in completing visits in a consistent, safe and respectful manner. We may choose to reschedule your sensitive exam. The policy is in accordance with a nationwide effort to ensure safety and dignity for both patients and clinicians during sensitive exams.
Is a chaperone required in the case of medically urgent examinations, treatments or procedures?
No. If a chaperone is not immediately available in an emergency situation that would typically require a chaperone, necessary care may occur without a chaperone.
Are there exceptions to this policy?
Yes. Routine care, including but not limited to personal hygiene assistance, perineal checks during the labor and delivery experience, placing EKG leads, conducing an echocardiogram and similar care protocols do not require a medical chaperone. However, a patient or clinician may request a chaperone at any time and for any reason.