Our policies
Your comfort and safety, in writing
We want you to know exactly what to expect before you walk in. These are the policies we work to, published so you can read them in your own time.
Chaperone policy
Our clinic and all staff endeavour to respect the dignity and individuality and cultural needs of every patient.
We work in partnership with you to protect and promote your wellbeing throughout your care.
To help ensure every consultation feels safe and comfortable for both patient and practitioners, we follow this simple guide:
- Patients under 18 will always have a chaperone present.
- Female patients will always be offered the option of a chaperone at their consultation.
- Female patients being treated in a sensitive area will always have a chaperone present, as a standard part of your care.
Our female reception staff are happy to act as your chaperone, or you’re welcome to bring your own support person. (aged 18 years of over, male or female).
What does a chaperone do?
A chaperone stays in the room for the full consultation and directly observes the interaction between practitioner and patient, so you can feel fully at ease.
Keeping a record
For your protection and ours, we note the name of your chaperone (where one is present) in your patient file. This is stored securely in our clinic’s system for a minimum of 10 years.
We also ask your chaperone to complete a patient log, as a paper record, to be scanned into your patient file.
Any Questions?
We’re always happy to talk through this policy, or anything else about your care. Please reach out to your practitioner, our reception team, or our practice manager, Philippa. We are here to help.
Treatment of sensitive areas
Examining and treating sensitive areas is a normal part of osteopathic practice, and we take your comfort and safety seriously.
What counts as a sensitive area
A sensitive area is any part of your body that carries a higher risk of sensitivity around exposure or touch. Any area can feel sensitive to you, and that is subjective and can change over time. Cultural, religious and social factors matter. Clear, consistent conversation is how we understand your preferences.
In line with Osteopathic Council of New Zealand guidelines, we always treat these areas as sensitive, regardless of gender:
- The breast, especially the areola and nipple
- Genitalia, perineum and anus, and the areas around them
- The gluteal, sacral and coccygeal region
- The anterior pelvic region
- The upper inner thigh
Shaun is also aware of culturally sensitive areas, such as the head, and will work in a culturally safe way. The only internal technique used at this clinic is cranial treatment involving the mouth.
In short
This work depends on trust and on talking clearly, both ways. Shaun will explain the aim, the reason, the process and the expected outcome of treating any sensitive area, and check that you have understood.
If at any point you feel uncomfortable, say so. You can ask for a chaperone, or ask Shaun to stop, at any time. You will never need a reason.
Treating children and young people under 18
For anyone under 18, the consent form is signed by a parent, guardian or caregiver. We explain this when you book and can send the form beforehand, so it is ready before your first appointment.
Every client under 18 is required to be accompanied into the treatment room by a chaperone. Wherever possible this should be a parent, guardian, or caregiver.
For female clients under 18, we complete a chaperone log at every appointment, after going through the chaperone policy together.
If no suitable chaperone is available, we will rebook the appointment for a time when one can be there.
These arrangements protect the young person and the osteopath alike.
Dated 9 July 2018. Updated 11 April 2024.
Questions about any of this?
Ask us before you book. We would rather answer now than have you wondering.
Call 06 347 1471