The importance of clear sexual boundaries in the patient-doctor relationship: A guide for patients

At a doctor's request, a patient will undress, allow physical touch normally limited to partners and family, and share private and personal information. 

Clear professional boundaries are important to ensure the protection of patients and doctors. This is a guide for patients that explains the doctor's responsibility to maintain sexual boundaries, and covers facilities for undressing, when another person is present during the consultation, and sexual relationships between a doctor and a former patient, and between a doctor and family members of patients.


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  • This statement outlines the doctor's responsibility to maintain sexual boundaries with patients, includes advice on what to do if boundaries are threatened, and offers guidance on sexual relationships with former patients and with family members of patients.