Ethical relationships with third parties, patients and the public

The practitioner-patient therapeutic relationship is a unique one and can be difficult to navigate.

The Medical and Dental Boards Code of conduct sets out the standards for good medical and dental practice, a key part of which is the requirement to behave ethically.

It is by this code your conduct will be tested. You have a professional responsibility to be familiar with the Code and to apply the guidance that the Code contains.

Good medical practice: a code of conduct for doctors in Australia

Dental Board Code of Conduct

Key sections of your code to review

1.4 Professional values and qualities of doctors
2 Doctor–patient partnership
4 Confidentiality and privacy
12 End-of-life care
13 Ending a professional relationship
14 Personal relationships
3 Doctors’ performance – you and your colleagues
2 Professional boundaries
7 Medico-legal, insurance and other assessments
8 Medical reports, certificates and giving evidence
11 Conflicts of interest
12 Financial and commercial dealings

Interactions with third parties

Be careful to avoid making comments/statements or expressing any opinion that is false, misleading or potentially deceptive. Good patient care depends on clear and accurate communication.

Interactions with patients

Be aware that in some circumstances, the relationship between a health practitioner and patient may become ineffective or compromised and is best terminated.
Be acutely aware of the need to treat patients with respect at all times and communicate effectively, courteously, professionally and respectfully with patients.
Be careful to avoid providing treatment to anyone with whom you have a close personal relationship.

Interactions with the public

As a health practitioner, your views on clinical issues are potentially influential and comments on social media might impact on someone’s sense of cultural safety or lead a person to feel judged, intimidated or embarrassed.
Language that is overtly personal or familiar or suggestive comments could be regarded as a breach of professional boundaries.
Be careful not to make comments, endorse or share information which contradicts or counters public health campaigns or messages, or which contradicts the best available scientific evidence.

References

Good medical practice: a code of conduct for doctors in Australia

Dental Board Code of Conduct

AMA Social Media guide

Medical Board Social Media Guidance

MIPS relevant resources

Webinar

Ethical and legal solutions to modern healthcare challenges

Common practice scenarios - what would you do?

Tips for Young Practitioners

Communication: It doesn't have to be so clinical

Practice notes

Potential exposure to complaints

Good health records support a good defence