Sexual Misconduct

“Examination of the breast or genitals without appropriate consent from a patient or surrogate decision maker qualifies as sexual misconduct under both of these categories. Sexual misconduct may be grounds for disciplinary action, and sexual misconduct that falls under the category of sexual violation also may meet the criteria for criminal prosecution . . .

“Physical examinations should be explained appropriately, undertaken only with the patient’s consent, and performed with the minimum amount of physical contact required to obtain data for diagnosis and treatment. Draping should be used to minimize patients’ exposure during examinations. Patients should be offered the opportunity to ask questions or raise concerns about any element of the examination. . .

“Sexual misconduct by an obstetrician–gynecologist is an abuse of power and a violation of patients’ trust. . .

READ MORE of this article by This Committee Opinion was developed by the American College of Obstetrician and Gynecologists’ Committee on Ethics in collaboration with committee member David I. Shalowitz, MD, MSHP.

https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/01/sexual-misconduct

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this blog is for educational purposes only. It is not intended in any manner as professional medical advice.  I am not a medical doctor.   The reader should consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information on this blog for their own situation, or if they have questions or issues regarding a medical condition.