Maurice Bernstein looks at the ethics:
Is hugging a patient professional? Does it exceed boundaries of professional behavior? Does it invade the patient’s privacy? Should doctors first ask the patient “may I hug you?” and wait for permission? When you are upset and in distress and need the attention and compassion of someone who shows that he or she cares about your feeling, should you or would you accept a hug from your doctor even without them asking?
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{ 3 comments }
I think that sometimes it is OK, in certain situations. Right after I was diagnosed with cancer, I then saw my pcp. While we were talking, he asked “Do you need a hug” to which I answered by nodding, and then he gave me one. What in the world could be wrong with that?
I don’t like people touching me. I think it is very unprofessional, especially a male doctor with a female patient. Even if they asked, I would say no.
I think what you say is bordering on sexist. It is equally either right or wrong for female or male doctors hugging female or male patients.
I myself am a medical student and debate that there are both pro’s and con’s to hugging a patient. Guidelines suggest ‘do the best for your patients’; does this mean hugging? Maybe?
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