Clinical Chaperone Policy

We define a sensitive examination as a physical examination of body parts that are typically covered by undergarments, such as underwear and/or bra. These body parts include genitals, pubic and pelvic regions, buttocks and anal/rectal regions, and breasts. Additionally, since every patient has a different history and a different experience with their body, you may define other body parts as sensitive. How you define your sensitive body parts also may vary from day to day. We encourage you to let us know if you have specific needs or concerns about any physical examination of your body. We can always make time to discuss this with you in more detail.

A clinical chaperone is a member of the SHS staff who has specific training in providing support for a safe, respectful and dignified interaction between a provider and patient during a sensitive examination. The chaperone serves to observe both the patient and examiner and assists as needed. You can and should request a clinical chaperone any time you feel it would improve your sense of safety and respect at Redfern Health Center. Your provider also can request a clinical chaperone if they feel it would support the safety, dignity and respect of the interaction.

Of note, patient visitors/family members and clinical learners are not appropriate chaperones.

As with all aspects of your health care, you have a right to control what does and does not happen with your body during your visit to Redfern Health Center. If your provider determines that a sensitive examination is necessary to best evaluate your health concerns, they will obtain informed consent from you prior to the exam. This conversation will include information about why your provider feels this examination is clinically necessary, what the exam will involve and a discussion about the use of a clinical chaperone. You will have a chance to ask questions. Remember, this conversation is designed to give you information to make a good decision about your own health. The choice is always yours. You can always decline the examination or change your mind about your decision at any point.

Clinical chaperones will typically come into the room for the sensitive examination only, unless you prefer a different arrangement. They will stand in a place where they can actively support both you and your provider while ensuring physical contact is appropriate to the situation. They are also available to assist either you or your provider if asked to do so. Once your exam is complete, they will usually leave the exam room with your provider to allow you to get dressed in private.

It is vitally important to us that you feel comfortable with, protected by and respected by the clinical chaperone. If you have specific needs regarding the identity (gender or otherwise) of your clinical chaperone, please let us know and we will do everything we can to accommodate that need. If we cannot accommodate your needs due to staffing, we will work with you to find a mutually acceptable alternative plan.

• We will always give you privacy to undress and dress.
• We will provide drapes, gowns and shorts that allow you adequate coverage for your body during an examination.
• We will uncover only the parts of your body that need to be examined and keep them uncovered for the shortest time necessary to allow for appropriate examination.
• We will foster a culture of responsibility and accountability within Redfern Health Center, to include clear reporting mechanisms should anyone suspect unsafe or unprofessional behavior.
• We will listen to you when you have questions, voice concerns or provide feedback.

To report potential inappropriate contact, please complete a Redfern Health Center Patient Feedback Form and give it to the Clinical Practice Manager, Navnit Sekhon: nsekhon@clemson.edu, 865-656-7422.

Individuals who submit a report on potentially inappropriate contact will not be subject to retaliation.