Dilemma results: Is it ever appropriate for a pharmacist to have intimate relations with a patient?

The GPhC has published standards for pharmacy professionals. These standards are wide-ranging but include guidance on how pharmacists and pharmacy technicians have an obligation to maintain appropriate relationships with patients.

As pharmacy professionals, we find ourselves in very privileged positions in terms of how we interact with patients. Patients trust us and as such we must maintain the highest standards of professionalism. With this privilege comes the responsibility to behave ‘professionally’ and uphold the standards expected by the GPhC.

The trouble is life is complicated and on occasion does not play out as the guidance suggests. This dilemma explores some of the themes in this area and takes you through a situation in which a pharmacist becomes intimately involved with a patient.

You are a community pharmacist running a rural pharmacy business. You have worked and lived in the same town for five years now. You are single but not particularly looking for love. Having worked in the village for five years you have developed many personal relationships and in fact, you pride yourself on this very fact.

This professional dilemma explores the relationships and delves into the circumstances around these relationships becoming romantic.

Click here to begin the dilemma results

Note: the purpose of this dilemma was to present a case that may occur in practice; for you to consider what you would do if faced with it, and to encourage you to reflect on your decision. The possible answers are examples and are not an exhaustive list of all the potential solutions.