Maintaining Your Professional Boundaries
By Cynthia M. A. Geppert, MD, PhD | March 1, 2010
"I’m one of the only psychiatrists practicing in this area. What am I realistically supposed to do when I see one of my patients in public? Whenever I go to the gym or library or grocery store, I see several patients I’m actively treating. Some want to say hello and some want to socialize. My response so far has been to try to avoid them.
As a fee-for-service psychiatrist, I am in a tough spot because I cannot totally ignore patients when they approach me without seeming to be uncaring.
How can I maintain my professional boundaries in this 'small town' environment?"
This tidbit was sent to us by Sarah... Thanks! This most definitely is a fascinating scenario. :D
ReplyDeleteoh that's so definately true.. it's difficult to juggle the two roles simultaneously.. but where should one draw a line??
ReplyDeleteSo.. what was the original reply to this question? What does Mr. Diptarup have to say about this?
ReplyDeleteI was thinking - what if in their brief outside encounters, she tried explaining the necessity of minimal social contact with her clients? I understand that this can be a tough task, especially in a small town environment.
Anyway, just me 0.02 worth :)