Should GPs be allowed to have sexual relationships with their patients?

I find Dr Kumars comments patronising and blinkered in the extreme. Where does the assumption that as GPs we sit on a pedestal and have enormous powers come from? Using this argument it could be construed that any relationships doctors have come about because of their professional position and no more. Consequently we are constantly guilty of using our status to create inappropriate relationships even with non-patients. The further assumption that all adults are vulnerable and that GPs only have contact with patients through their ill health is utter nonsense. Relationships created through coercion in any aspect of life should be prevented but the belief that a consensual relationship with an ex or registered patient is fundamentaly wrong is a mediaval approach.

Please take this tit with a 'tache off PULSE- he might have not taken the Hippocratic oath, but for those of us who did would he mind awfully pissing on it in private?

A regulated system would in my opinion be best.

If a doctor wishes to marry a patient, then they should have to allow family relatives to submit any concerns they have over consent/vulnerability etc, and if no issues found, then let them be happy.

well that was articulate..............

Wow GPs debating in a public forum whether they would like to have sex with their patients ! Very professional

It is never right for a doctor to engage in a sexual relationship with a patient who they are responsible or if they work in the team responsible for the delivery of care to the patient. Trust in the profession is vital. There should never be any doubt about the commitment to a patient's care but that care must be objective and dispassionate. To engage in sexual activity with a patient removes that assurance.

It is unequal relationships where one exploits the other that are wrong. A blanket ban is shortsighted, unworkable and creates unnecessary social stress on Doctors.

Dr. Kumar having served on GMC'S Professional Conduct Committees has developed a status and is sitting on pedestal,in these fast modern society sexual relationship is based on mutual understanding and consent.If any doctor misbehaves patients have all means at their disposal to report the doctors conduct.
The GMC guidelines are out dated and need to be looked at.there are number os cases of minor sexual offenses which are referred to GMC and invariably doctors are struck off affecting their professional standing and livelihood.