Sexual boundaries between a patient and a doctor, physician associate or anaesthesia associate
- Summary
- Advice and support
- What is sexual misconduct?
- Sexual boundaries between a patient and a doctor, PA or AA
A doctor, physician associate (PA) or anaesthesia associate (AA) must not act in a sexual way, or in a way that you feel is sexual, towards you. They must not use their professional position to pursue a sexual or improper emotional relationship with you or someone close to you.
The professional standards for all doctors, PAs and AAs, which are called Good medical practice, make it clear that it's their responsibility to maintain clear boundaries within their relationship with patients.
Why clear sexual boundaries are important
Doctors, PAs and AAs hold a position of trust. Sexual misconduct damages and undermines that position of trust, and can cause irreparable harm to victims/survivors and their loved ones.
You have a right to be treated with dignity and respect and to receive healthcare without fear of abuse.
As you go to them to seek guidance and advice, there is an imbalance of power in your relationship. They decide the level of physical contact an examination might need, and have access to personal and private information about you to diagnose and treat you.
Clear sexual boundaries are important so that your care is not compromised in any way.
