Learning About Medical Chaperones

What is a medical chaperone?

A medical chaperone is a trained member of your care team. This person is in the room with you and your doctor during a sensitive exam or procedure. They're there to help you feel comfortable and safe.

Why are they used?

A medical chaperone is often used to protect your privacy during a sensitive exam. These exams involve body parts that are usually covered by your underwear. They include exams of the breasts, genitals, buttocks, pubic area, and rectal area.

A chaperone also may be used during a child's or teen's exam.

What do they do?

Their role is to help protect your rights and privacy during your visit. They'll be in a place where they can see you, your doctor, and the exam. They don't take part in the exam. It's their job to help you feel safe.

When are they required?

Whether a medical chaperone is required depends on your facility. Some doctor's offices require that one is present for all sensitive exams. Others let you choose whether to have one.

You have the right to have a chaperone present for any visit. Contact your doctor’s office or hospital to ask how to request one.