What should GPs be doing about chaperones?

Abstract

Trust remains the cornerstone of the relationship between a GP and patient. If a GP should use words or actions of a sexual nature with a patient in the context of the consultation, a professional boundary may have been crossed and the inherent trust between doctor and patient may have been compromised.1 In this unique clinical environment, both patient and GP are vulnerable. Failure to address this issue can have life-changing repercussions for one or both parties.