Beginning July 1, 2023 the Oregon Medical Board requires that providers offer patients the opportunity to have a trained medical chaperone available for sensitive exams.
Medical chaperones are trained to know what to expect during an exam and are there to ensure patient and provider safety. A chaperone is offered for your comfort, but you may choose to decline to have a chaperone present. Please speak with your healthcare provider if you have questions about a sensitive exam or the use of a medical chaperone.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is considered a “sensitive” exam?
Any breast, genital or rectal exam. Diapering or perineal care for newborns also fall into this category.
What is the role of a Medical Chaperone?
Chaperones have special training and are present to make sure that patients and providers are comfortable and safe during sensitive exams or procedures. They will observe and assist during the exam as needed.
Can a Medical Chaperone be requested for other types of exams?
Chaperones are available for any type of exam.
What if I don’t want to have a Medical Chaperone?
- Patients and parents of minors may decline a chaperone, but a chaperone must still be offered.
- Minors who are 15 years of age or older are able to consent to medical services without parental consent in Oregon.
- Minors may accept or decline a chaperone at any age for reproductive health services as outlined in ORS 109.610 and 109.640. For further information please review the Oregon Health Authority’s Understanding Minor Consent and Confidentiality in Health Care in Oregon.
- Providers may decline to perform an exam if a chaperone is not present.
Can a family member serve as a Medical Chaperone?
Family members or friends are not considered Medical Chaperones as they likely do not have the training/qualifications or the objectivity to serve in this role.
Am I able to ask for a Chaperone to be a specific gender?
Yes, but our ability to accommodate may be limited by staffing.
What can I expect at a sensitive exam?
- Information about your exam will be shared with you, including why it is needed, what will happen and what it might feel like.
- You should expect privacy to undress and to be offered a gown or drape.
- Your care team should never make any sexual remarks, hints or jokes.
- You have the right to refuse any portion of an exam or to stop the exam at any point.
At Mosaic, we want to make sure you feel comfortable, safe, and respected during your healthcare visit.
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