Can Doctors Get in Trouble for Dating Patients?

 Posted on August 21,2025 in Medical license defense

Physicians dedicate years to building their careers and reputations, but all of that can be jeopardized if a patient accuses them of inappropriate conduct. Even something that may seem like a consensual relationship, like simply asking out a patient who seems interested, flirting, or starting a relationship, can lead to serious professional consequences in Indiana. When allegations of inappropriate behavior are made, doctors must understand what Indiana state law says and how to defend their license and livelihood.

At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc., our Indiana medical license defense attorneys provide free consultations to physicians facing professional investigations. Allegations of misconduct involving patients are among the most serious a doctor can face, and responding strategically is critical.

Indiana Rules on Physician Conduct Around Dating Patients

In Indiana, physician conduct is regulated by the Medical Licensing Board under the Indiana Code and administrative rules. Specifically, Ind. Code § 25-1-9-4 authorizes disciplinary action against license holders for "immoral conduct" or "conduct that endangers the public health, welfare, or safety." Sexual contact or romantic relationships with patients can fall under these categories.

The Indiana Administrative Code also prohibits sexual misconduct with patients, which includes:

• Making sexual advances toward patients

• Requesting dates or initiating romantic contact during the physician-patient relationship

• Engaging in sexual activity with a patient, even if the patient appears to consent

The key issue is the inherent imbalance of power between physician and patient. Regulators often consider any romantic or sexual relationship to be exploitative, even if both parties claim it was consensual.

How Investigations of Doctors for "Immoral Conduct" Begin

Complaints can come directly from patients, family members, or even colleagues. Once the Medical Licensing Board receives a complaint, it has the authority to investigate. Investigations may include reviewing patient records, interviewing witnesses, and questioning the physician.

Allegations of sexual harassment or inappropriate relationships are taken seriously, and in addition to license discipline, doctors may face civil lawsuits or criminal charges depending on the circumstances.

Possible Disciplinary Consequences for Doctors Who Date Patients

If the Board finds evidence of misconduct, consequences can include formal letters of reprimand, fines, license suspension or revocation, and mandatory counseling or education programs.

For doctors, even a public reprimand can severely damage a career. Losing a license or being suspended can end years of professional work.

Defending Against Allegations of Immoral Conduct

Doctors accused of dating or hitting on patients do have defenses. The approach depends on the facts of the case:

• Challenging the evidence: Allegations of harassment or boundary violations may rely on statements that are inconsistent or lack corroboration.

• Questioning the timing of the relationship: If the physician-patient relationship had formally ended before the relationship began, the case may be viewed differently.

• Arguing lack of intent: Not every interaction that feels uncomfortable to a patient was intended to cross professional lines. Context matters, and defense attorneys can present that perspective.

Doctors facing these allegations often feel ashamed or fearful, but remaining silent or hoping the complaint will disappear can make the situation worse. The key is to act quickly. Anything a doctor says to investigators may be used against them, so legal representation should be obtained as soon as possible. With experienced legal guidance, it may be possible to limit disciplinary action or preserve your medical license entirely.

Contact an Indiana Professional License Defense Attorney

If you are a physician accused of dating a patient or are facing allegations of sexual misconduct, your career may be on the line. At The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc., we offer free consultations and represent doctors before the Indiana Medical Licensing Board. Call 463-219-2612 today to speak with an Indiana license defense attorney for doctors who understands the law.