I want you to have enough clear information to decide whether to proceed with a consultation, examination or treatment. You can ask questions, request reasonable support, ask for a chaperone and raise a concern if something does not feel right.
If you have an accessibility, communication, privacy, chaperone or support need, tell the clinic before attending where possible so practical arrangements can be discussed. If symptoms are severe, sudden or rapidly worsening, do not wait for a routine appointment or complaints process: call 999 or attend A&E for a life-threatening emergency, or use NHS 111 for urgent non-emergency advice.
Written & reviewed by
Dr George XynopoulosConsultant Physician & Cardiologist · GMC 3502763 · Reviewed by Dr George Xynopoulos, Consultant Physician & Cardiologist · GMC 3502763
Clinical review date: 21 August 2026
View full profileConsent and questions
Consent is an ongoing conversation, not simply a form. Before an examination, test or treatment, ask what will happen, why it is proposed, what preparation is needed, what the alternatives or limits are and what happens after the appointment.
Urgent symptoms should be assessed through the appropriate urgent or emergency route rather than delayed while waiting for a routine appointment.
- You can ask for an explanation in plain language.
- You can ask about risks, discomfort, alternatives and what the test may not show.
- You can say if you need time, privacy, a support person or another conversation before proceeding.
- You can tell the clinician if circumstances change or you no longer wish to proceed.
Chaperones, privacy and dignity
For an intimate, sensitive or potentially uncomfortable examination, you can ask for a chaperone before booking, on arrival or before the examination begins. The clinic will discuss the chaperone route that applies to the service; availability of an appropriate trained member of staff is confirmed for your appointment and you can ask to pause or defer a non-urgent examination if suitable arrangements are not available. You can also discuss privacy, communication preferences and whether you would like a support person, subject to the service setting and safety requirements. Tell the team as early as possible if this is important to you.
Accessibility and practical support
Tell the clinic about mobility, sensory, communication, language or other access needs before attending. The Contact page includes travel, parking and accessibility planning information; the clinic team can discuss the arrangements that apply to your visit. Availability of a particular adjustment or support arrangement is confirmed with the clinic before booking or attendance.
Feedback and complaints
If you have feedback or a concern, contact the clinic as soon as possible at info@victoriamedical.co.uk or 020 3146 9508 and explain what happened, when it happened and the outcome you are seeking. Ask for the current complaints process, acknowledgement and response arrangements, and any escalation information. Keep relevant appointment, invoice or communication details. You may also use the CQC information link below to understand its role in regulation; it does not replace the clinic’s own complaints route. If a concern involves immediate safety, use the appropriate urgent route first rather than waiting for an administrative response.
Frequently Asked Questions
References
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