§ Ms. Richardsonasked the Secretary of State for Social Services in which hospitals it is the practice to permit medical students to conduct vaginal examinations on women without their consent.
§ Mr. Kenneth ClarkeOur Department's guidance to health authorities requires that if students are to be present during any treatment or examination, the teacher should ensure that the patient understands the situation and consents. It also requires hospitals to provide patients with an explanation of the importance of clinical teaching, an outline of what it might involve and a clear statement that they may decline to participate without prejudice to their treatment.