I have recently had a rather close e-mail contact with a doctor who treated my daughter. However, about a possible relationship with me, he says that a relationship with a (former) patient is not allowed. But my daughter was the patient, and that treatment is now over…
Woman (57)
Joris Bartstra, journalist with medical diploma
According to doctors’ organization KNMG, sexual contact between doctor and patient is never allowed. You can discuss whether this also applies to the patient’s parents or other relatives. The thinking behind it is that the doctor should not abuse his or her position; a doctor should also not accept gifts that go beyond a bunch of flowers or a bottle of wine.
It is of course not the case that a doctor should never have a relationship with someone he/she has ever treated. The KNMG says: if the doctor and patient are in love with each other, the care relationship must be terminated correctly, followed by a cooling off period in which there is no contact. It should take at least a few weeks. If you both really want a relationship, there is a sleeve to adjust. If I look at the situation objectively, I would keep in mind that this doctor is stricter than necessary because he doubts whether he wants a relationship with you.
Also a health question? Click here and ask the question to an expert!
