NOTICE OF CHAPERONE POLICY
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA MERCED
THIS NOTICE DESCRIBES UC MERCED STUDENT HEALTH CENTER'S
APPROACH TO SENSITIVE EXAMS AND YOUR RIGHT TO A CHAPERONE
DURING AN EXAM OR PROCEDURE
WE LISTEN – WE CARE
During your visit, you should always feel comfortable and safe, listened to and heard, valued and respected. If you ever experience anything less from the UC Merced Student Health Center, we want to hear from you. Please contact us by submitting your feedback online. Feedback Survey If you’ve been harassed or assaulted, you can contact UC Merced Title IX Office for help at (209) 355-0352, or https://ophd.ucmerced.edu/report.
WE’RE HERE FOR YOU
At UC Merced Student Health Center, we know that some medical exams and procedures are more sensitive than others. We want you always to be comfortable. A sensitive exam or procedure involves a physical examination of the breasts, genitalia, or rectum. Examples include breast, vaginal, penile, scrotal or rectal exams. We have trained chaperones to help make sure sensitive exams and procedures are done in a safe, comfortable, and professional way. If you ever feel uneasy or need more information about what will happen during your exam, please ask us. We are here to help.
WHEN SHOULD I EXPECT A CHAPERONE?
A chaperone should be offered to you at the time of your visit or procedure where a sensitive exam is expected. You can also request a chaperone for ANY exam or procedure that is not sensitive in nature.
HOW CAN I LEARN MORE?
You can learn more by reviewing the UC Merced "Medical Chaperones for Sensitive Exams and Procedures: Frequently Asked Questions" or the "Sensitive Exams Brochure." Both can be found published online at: https://health.ucmerced.edu/ under the sensitive exams tab. You can also ask your provider or front office staff for a copy. Safety and trust are crucial to providing the safe, supportive, and respectful environment our patients and staff expect and deserve.
