Chaperones in OH – Part 1

Part 1: the role of chaperones in occupational health practice

Summary:

Chaperones are increasingly offered in certain areas of healthcare, such as where ‘intimate’ examinations may be required, or where vulnerable patients are involved. Although uncommon in OH there are occasions where the presence of a chaperone may be advisable. Occupational physician Dr Momeda Deen considers the role of chaperones and proposes a draft chaperone policy for use by OH services.

Occupational health (OH) specialises in the effects of health on work and the effects of work on health. Most clinical assessments involve an interview with a doctor or nurse, either face to face or remotely by telephone or video. Occasionally, this will involve a clinical examination or required tests and these must be conducted in line with professional, ethical and legal standards. This article considers the potential role for chaperones in OH, both in protecting patients (employees) and the OH practitioner themselves. With little, if any, published guidance on chaperones in OH…

Dr Momeda Deen is an accredited specialist in occupational medicine and provides occupational health services to the NHS and a wide range of other companies.

Author: Deen M

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Occupational Health at Work June/July 2023 (vol. 20/1) pp19-24

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