의료영역에서의 샤프롱(Chaperone)제도

Personal relationships between doctors and patients are essential for effective treatment. Optimal care is possible only when there is trust between the doctor and patient. In recent years, disputes between healthcare providers and patients have been increasing. In particular, there have been disputes related to the sexual harassment of patients during physical examinations, causing harm to doctor-patient relationships. Fundamental measures are needed to deal with these disputes. In some countries, such disputes are prevented by means of a chaperone system that helps to establish trust between the doctor and the patient. With the chaperone system, when a doctor conducts a physical examination of a patient, an assistant helps with the examination or is present during the examination. When the chaperone system is used, communication between the doctor and the patient is enhanced, thereby reducing the chances of legal disputes. This article argues that a chaperone system with detailed guidelines is needed in South Korea in order to ensure patient safety and effective treatment, especially for gynecological and other intrusive physical examinations.