Should I carry out an intimate examination if a patient does not want a chaperone present?

Patients have a right to refuse a chaperone. If you are unwilling to conduct an intimate examination without one, explain your reasons to the patient. You may need to offer an alternative appointment, or an alternative doctor, but only if the patient's clinical needs allow this.

Read more in our guide to chaperones.

This page was correct at publication on 14/02/2022. 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.

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