During your visit to the Leeds Teaching Hospitals, you may be asked to have some clinical photographs taken to help with your treatment. This leaflet explains why this is important and what will happen.
What is a clinical photograph?
You will have photographs taken with a digital camera by one of our trained Clinical Photographers, to provide an accurate visual record of your condition. This can be useful for your doctor to see any changes and help with your treatment.
These photographs will be used by consultants, doctors and breast care nurses to discuss surgical options and monitor the outcome of your surgery.
Do I have a choice about whether to have photographs taken?
Yes. As with any medical procedure, your doctor should explain why the photographs are needed and what they will be used for.
You will always be asked for your permission before the photographs are taken and will be given a consent form to sign.
The photographs will be stored confidentially on the Trust’s Medical Image Database as part of your medical notes.
You may be asked to consent to either of the following levels, for the intended uses of your clinical recordings:
Level 1: Patient Record
Level 1 consent is for recordings which are made for your treatment or assessment. Recordings for treatment or assessment of your care where you cannot be identified may also be used within the clinical setting, for education or research.
Level 2: Education or Research, within the Clinical Setting
Recordings given Level 2 consent are for use in education or research within the clinical setting. This includes Level 1 consent.
Level 3: Publication or Other Uses
Recordings given Level 3 consent are for any other use; for example for use in a book, website or promotional material. It includes Levels 1 and 2 consent.
If you change your mind afterwards, depending on what the photographs have been used for, you may be able to withdraw your permission.
Who takes the photographs?
You will be photographed by a Clinical Photographer who is specially trained in taking clinical photographs and video.
Where possible we will always try to ensure we have a photographer of the same sex available. However, where this is not possible and you would prefer a photographer of the same sex, we can make you an appointment to return to the department for photographs at a later date.
Where will the photographs be taken?
There are clinical photography studios at Leeds General Infirmary, St. James’ Hospital and Chapel Allerton Hospital. If you are unable to come to the studio, a photographer will come to the ward or clinic to photograph you.
How are the photographs stored?
The images are uploaded to the Trust’s secure Medical Image Manager. Access to this database is restricted and storage and retrieval of images is carried out under information governance guidelines. The photographs are kept for the same length of time as your medical records and are covered by the Data Protection Act.
We understand that you may feel nervous about having photographs taken. We aim to make the experience as simple and quick as we can for you. If you have any questions or need any further information, please feel free to discuss this with one of our qualified clinical photographers (via the contact details near the bottom of the page).
What will happen?
You will be seen by a photographer as soon as possible. If the photographer is with another patient, there may be a short wait.
A changing room and a gown are provided and a chaperone can be present if you wish. We will need you to remove any jewellery and long hair will need to be tied back and off the shoulders.
The photographer will discuss with you the photographs to be taken and explain the different views needed. This leaflet will illustrate the views most likely to be taken. We will never include your face in the photographs.
You will be asked to remove your bra for the photographs.
Dependent on the type of surgery you are having, we may need to take extended, additional views which show your lower abdomen, thighs or buttocks. We also may be asked to take closer photographs of specified areas (eg. Scarring).
If this is needed, we will ask you to remove any underwear below the waist. Your photographer will discuss this with you at the time of your appointment.
Standard Photography Views Required
Clinical Photographers / Medical Illustration contact details:
Or contact the hospital switchboard on:
How to find us
Clinical Photography studios:
Chapel Allerton Hospital
Clinical Photography – 1st Floor, Chapel Allerton Hospital, Chapeltown Road, Leeds, LS7 4SA
Leeds General Infirmary
Clinical Photography – A Floor Clarendon Wing, Leeds General Infirmary, Belmont Grove, Leeds, LS2 9NS
St James’ University Hospital
Clinical Photography – Level 1, Lincoln Wing, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF
Administration Offices:
Medical Illustration Hub
A Floor Martin Wing, Leeds General Infirmary, Great George Street, Leeds, LS1 3EX