A client you have been treating for years and have shared many personal stories/conversations with has asked you to join them for dinner. You suspect they would like to initiate a romantic relationship with you. You always look forward to seeing them and have considered becoming romantic with them as well.

Is it okay to date clients?

No. RDHs cannot date or begin romantic relationships with clients. Doing so is a clear boundary crossing and can lead to professional misconduct.

“Clients” include any person that an RDH has interacted with and for whom they have provided or recommended a healthcare service or contributed to a health record (e.g., clinical chart entry). A person is still considered a client for one year after their last interaction with the RDH. Even after one year has passed, there can be circumstances where it may be inadvisable for an RDH to pursue a romantic relationship with a former client (e.g., a long-standing treatment relationship, a vulnerable client, etc.) Accordingly, it is recommended that RDHs do not date or engage in romantic relationships with former clients.

In healthcare, a power imbalance exists between professionals and their clients. That makes maintaining clear and firm boundaries essential. The RDH-client relationship is centred on trust, respect and confidence. While it’s natural to connect with clients, these relationships are not meant to be used to seek new friendships or romantic partners. RDHs must prioritize the client’s well-being and the integrity of the professional relationship. Dating a client would place your personal interests above your client’s and the integrity of the professional relationship, even if the client initiates.

What should you do?

If a client wants to initiate a personal relationship, you should politely explain that it’s in their best interest to only have a professional relationship with them. For more information, view the Guideline: Prevention of Sexual Abuse and Maintenance of Professional Boundaries.