Sexual ethics in medicine

Ethics is an important factor when providing medical attention. So is it ethically acceptable to have sexual relations with a patient? In an article by Katherine H. Hall, she exclaims that although doctor-patient sexual contact is clearly unethical, former patient and doctor sexual relations is more debatable. Hall addresses the persistence of transference the unequal power distribution in the original doctor–patient relationship and the ethical implications that arise from both these factors especially with respect to the patient's autonomy and ability to consent, even when a former patient. Evidently it is only in very particular circumstances could such relationships be ethically permissible. In 1994 the New Zealand Medical Council sanctioned a code within the United States that states sexual conduct of any kind from doctor to patient is considered unethical.

So does this refer to patients that a doctor had 25 years prior to the present? The answer is technically yes. But underlining question is should a doctor ever pursue a sexual relationship with any type of patient. Hall’s article goes into great detail about the boundaries that exist within a doctor-patient relationship. She includes the boundaries of time, role, space, money, gifts, services, language, contact etc. Sexual play and misconduct usually arise from the overstepping of one or more of these minor boundaries and this is why doctor-patient sexual relationships are seen unethically from a professional standpoint. Sexual experiences are a part of life and sometimes things just happen. If you are anyone has questions about sexual experiences please visit this blog relevant to this topic located here http://alexisblouch.wix.com/lexxblouch

Hall KH. Sexualization of the doctor–patient relationship: is it ever ethically permissible? Family Practice 2001; 18: 511–515.