Do you want someone to be with you during your visit or exam?

Some exams are more sensitive than others. We strive to ensure a respectful and reassuring environment in commitment to your safety and dignity.

Medical chaperones

Our Culture of Safety ensures that a trained Medical Chaperone will be present during a Sensitive Health Exam or Procedure. This is a standard and consistent practice at the Culinary Health Center.

A Medical Chaperone is available to be present during your visit and is required during any Sensitive Health Exam or Procedure (such as a genital, rectal, or breast exam).

• Your Medical Chaperone may be your provider’s Medical Assistant.
• Please let us know if you prefer a Medical Chaperone of a specific gender.
• You may stop your Sensitive Health Exam or Procedure at any time by communicating with your provider or the Medical Chaperone.
• You may also ask a friend or family member to be present during your exam.

Standards for a Sensitive Health Exam or Procedure

• What is a Sensitive Health Exam?

  An exam or procedure involving the genitals, rectum or breasts.

• What is a Medical Chaperone and what do they do?

  A Medical Chaperone is a trained staff member who is present during the exam or procedure to assist and to serve as a witness. Your Medical Chaperone may be your provider’s Medical Assistant. Note that a Medical Chaperone may not be present if impractical, such as during a medical emergency or for standard care protocols such as an EKG.

• May I decline to have a Medical Chaperone present?

  Yes, you may decline a Medical Chaperone. However, it is a standard and consistent practice at the Culinary Health Center to have a Medical Chaperone present during all Sensitive Health Exams and procedures. Providers may decide not to perform a Sensitive Health Exam without a Medical Chaperone present. The presence or absence of a Medical Chaperone will be documented in your medical record. Declining a Medical Chaperone will not affect the quality of medical care provided to you.

• May I request a gender-specific Medical Chaperone?

  Yes, you may request a Medical Chaperone of a specific gender. We will do our best to accommodate your gender preference in accordance with applicable law. Please let us know in advance.

• What can I expect during my visit?

  Your privacy is our priority. We will protect your dignity and confidentiality during a sensitive health exam or procedure. You can expect:

  • An explanation of the exam or procedure.
  • An opportunity to ask questions before the Sensitive Health Exam or Procedure begins.
  • The ability to stop the Sensitive Health Exam or Procedure at any time by communicating with the provider or Medical Chaperone.

Questions or concerns? Please ask. We are here to help!