Sensitive Exam Policy

To ensure patient safety, privacy, dignity, and comfort during medically sensitive examinations Massac Memorial Hospital abides by a Sensitive Medical Exam Policy. We ensure safety, privacy, dignity, and comfort during medically sensitive examinations by providing clear guidelines for when a trained medical chaperone must be present, and outlining the roles and responsibilities of providers, staff, students, and patients.

Medically Sensitive Exam:

A medically sensitive exam includes any physical examination involving:

Breasts, genitalia, perineum, or rectal area

Pelvic or prostate examinations

Any examination that requires exposure of areas typically covered by undergarments

Any examination that may be perceived by the patient as intimate or potentially embarrassing

Trained Medical Chaperone:

A trained medical chaperone is a clinical hospital staff member who has completed approved training in patient support, privacy, trauma-informed care, and documentation related to medically sensitive exams.