Chaperone Policy

Total Health Physiotherapy Ltd is committed to maintaining patient dignity, privacy, and safety during all consultations and treatments, particularly where examinations may be of an intimate nature.
This policy outlines the use of chaperones in line with professional standards set by the HCPC.

What is a Chaperone?
A chaperone is an individual present during an examination to provide reassurance and safeguard both the patient and practitioner.

Offering a Chaperone
A chaperone will always be offered for:
• Digital vaginal examinations (DVEs)
• Any procedure that may be considered intimate
Patients will be informed of their right to have a chaperone present.

Availability
As Total Health Physiotherapy Ltd operates as a sole practitioner service:
• A chaperone cannot be provided by the clinic
• Patients are welcome to bring a trusted individual with them

Patient Choice
Patients may:
• Accept a chaperone
• Decline a chaperone
• Request to reschedule if they wish to arrange one
The decision will be respected at all times.

When Treatment May Not Proceed
The practitioner reserves the right not to proceed with an intimate examination if:
• Consent is unclear
• The patient appears uncomfortable
• There is any concern regarding safety or appropriateness

Documentation
The following will be recorded in clinical notes:
• That a chaperone was offered
• Whether it was accepted or declined
• Details of the chaperone (if present)

Professional Boundaries
All examinations will be conducted with sensitivity, professionalism, and respect for patient dignity at all times.

Date of review: 19th April 2026
Reviewed by: Nicola Herringshaw (Director of Total Health Physiotherapy Ltd)