Can a doctor have a romantic relationship with a patient?

The GMC makes it clear in its guidance it is never appropriate for a doctor to pursue a sexual or improper emotional relationship with a current patient or someone close to them. It is also inappropriate to end a professional relationship with a patient in order to then pursue a personal relationship.

Is it possible to date a doctor?

As doctors are intelligent and often passionate about their work, dating a doctor can be a wonderful experience. However, there are certain challenges that come with dating a medical professional. Spending time together can be difficult as doctors schedules are erratic.

Can a doctor have a romantic relationship with a former patient?

Generally, it is malpractice for a doctor to engage in a sexual or romantic relationship with current OR former patients. The medical community requires that doctors and patients wait at least a year after terminating the doctor/patient relationship before entering into a sexual or romantic relationship.

How long should you wait to date after a doctor/patient relationship?

The medical community requires that doctors and patients wait at least a year after terminating the doctor/patient relationship before entering into a sexual or romantic relationship. There is a push for a longer waiting period. The American Psychiatric Association has said that patient/therapist romantic relationships are never appropriate.

Can a physician date a former patient?

A physician must terminate the patient-physician relationship before initiating a dating, romantic, or sexual relationship with a patient. Likewise, sexual or romantic relationships between a physician and a former patient may be unduly influenced by the previous physician-patient relationship.

Is it ethical for a doctor to have a sexual relationship?

The balance of power in the professional relationship between a doctor or therapist and a patient makes a sexual relationship highly suspect and unethical. It is the doctor or therapist’s responsibility and duty to ensure that his or her relationship with the patient remain as professional as possible.