Consent for intimate examinations


These are part of routine examination and investigation and the same general rules for consent apply. Remember the role of chaperones and be aware that performing an intimate exam without consent could be considered a breach of the Sexual Offences Act.


Other areas of consent


Patient consent is not restricted to investigation and treatment. Other areas of consent include: •


•


• •


Consent to screening: healthy individuals considering consent for screening for selected diseases should be properly informed as to the purpose, likelihood of fi ndings (including potential for false positives and negatives), any medical, social or fi nancial implications and follow-up services (e.g. counselling). Consent for research: obtaining valid consent for participation in research is crucial and the issues can be complex. It is advised to refer to the GMC guidance or consult other recognised bodies. Consent for teaching and training purposes: express patient consent is required for the attendance of students or unqualifi ed trainees during any investigation or treatment. Consent for disclosure of confi dential information: any information from a patient must be treated confi dentially and disclosure requires express patient consent in most cases. See separate MDDUS guidance on confi dentiality for exceptions to patient consent for disclosure.


MDDUS and consent


MDDUS members are advised to consult our medical and dental advisers if in any doubt as to the need for, and form of, patient consent.


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