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“Is it ever appropriate to become romantically involved with a patient, either past or present?”


More than a friend Another common dilemma is whether it is ever appropriate to become romantically involved with a patient, either past or present. As highlighted at the outset, trust is the foundation of any


doctor-patient relationship. The GMC is clear that a personal relationship with a current patient is never acceptable. Doctors must never use their professional position to pursue a sexual or improper emotional relationship with a patient or someone close to them. Their guidance Maintaining a professional boundary between you and your patient also states you must not end your professional relationship with a patient solely to pursue a personal relationship with them. But is it ever appropriate to become involved with former patients?


There are no answers or set time limits in such situations and doctors must always exercise their judgement. The GMC explains that the more recently a professional relationship with a patient ended, the less likely it is that beginning a personal relationship with that patient


would be appropriate. The duration of the professional relationship may also be relevant. For example, a relationship with a former patient you treated over a number of years is more likely to be inappropriate than a relationship with a patient with whom you had a single consultation. Much also depends on whether there could be any perceived abuse of position. Factors which you would need to consider include the amount of time since you last saw the patient in a consultation, whether they are vulnerable, and whether you are still treating their family members. It may be helpful to take a step back and think of how someone


looking at your situation for the first time would judge it. If you think they may frown upon your actions, or you find yourself acting in a manner to conceal them, it may be time to take a second look.


Dr Naeem Nazem is a medical adviser at MDDUS


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