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We will always respect your privacy, dignity, and your religious and cultural beliefs, particularly when intimate examinations are advisable. These will only be carried out with your express agreement.

If you are seeing the doctor for a mole check, a skin cancer check or a generalized rash, you may have to remove your clothing down to your underwear during the examination.

If you are seeing the doctor or nurse with a problem in your breast, groin or buttock (e.g. smear test, prostate or rectal examination, penis or vaginal problem) you may have to remove your underwear for the examination.

In both these circumstances you may bring a friend or relative with you during the examination (a chaperone).If you are unable to bring someone, you may request that the clinic provide a nurse or another trained staff member to attend with the doctor or nurse during an intimate examination.

In certain circumstances, the doctor or nurse may require a chaperone to join her/him during an intimate examination for your comfort and the safety of both you and the doctor/nurse.

You may request a chaperone when making the appointment or on arrival at the surgery (please let the receptionist know) or at any time during the consultation.