Why is it essential for health professionals to avoid dual relationships with patients?

Maintaining professionalism is essential for health professionals to ensure that the patient-provider relationship remains focused on the patient's health and well-being. When dual relationships occur—where the health professional has another significant social, familial, or financial relationship with the patient—there can be a conflict of interest that undermines the integrity of the care provided.

Professionalism entails adhering to ethical guidelines that protect patients from potential harm or exploitation. In a dual relationship, a health professional may find it difficult to remain objective or may inadvertently compromise the patient's trust and confidentiality. This trust is vital for effective treatment and communication, which are foundational to a positive health outcome. By avoiding dual relationships, health professionals can maintain clear boundaries that foster a safe and effective therapeutic environment, ensuring that their assessment and interventions are unbiased and in the best interest of the patient.