We are committed to providing the best possible care, reducing risk to our patients and providers, and educating future health care providers. We are dedicated to creating a safe, secure and supportive environment. These efforts including education of and setting consistent standards for our patients and providers.
The following is educational information on our Chaperone policy and process.
What is a Medical Chaperone?
To provide a safe and supportive environment, all patients will be offered a Medical Chaperone during a sensitive exam and upon the patient’s request. A Medical Chaperone is a licensed medical professional or an employee of the clinic or unit who is trained to work in clinical care. The chaperone may observe the exam or assist with the procedure, provide comfort and reassurance to the patient, assist in arranging interpreter services and ensure continuing consent to the exam/treatment/procedure. The Medical Chaperone shall adhere to all privacy and confidentiality expectations. A Medical Chaperone does not need to be present throughout an entire patient visit (such as when discussion of health history is being gathered or when the patient wants to have a private conversation with their provider). Per the American Academy of Pediatrics, a parent/guardian may serve as a chaperone for patients under 10 years of age.
We will make every effort to ensure the Medical Chaperone is the gender the patient is most comfortable with. Please notify a staff member if you would like to have a Medical Chaperone present during your exam. Unless declined by a patient, a Medical Chaperone should always be present during sensitive exams, treatments and procedures.
What is a sensitive exam?
Providers will always provide an explanation of any exam, treatment or procedure that is planned for the visit. A sensitive exam, treatment or procedure includes, but is not limited to, an exam, evaluation, palpation, physical therapy of, placement of instruments in or exposure of:
- Genitalia
- Rectum
- Breast
In addition to sensitive exams, a patient or their caregiver may request a Medical Chaperone for any exam. Patients have the right to immediately terminate the exam at any time. If you become uncomfortable for any reason during an exam, tell the provider immediately. If you have questions or concerns about any part of an exam, do not hesitate to ask these questions right away.
Declining a Medical Chaperone
If a patient or their caregiver declines the presence of a Medical Chaperone and the provider is uncomfortable proceeding, a conversation between the patient and provider regarding the purpose of a Medical Chaperone should occur.
If the patient still declines, the provider may postpone the exam or reschedule the patient visit for another time or with a different provider.
Concerns
Concerns or violation of the chaperone policy can be reported to the Office of Institutional Equity at 614-247-5838 or online at https://equity.osu.edu/. The Office of Institutional Equity exists to help the Ohio State community prevent and respond to all forms of protected class harassment, discrimination and sexual misconduct.