It’s not a coincidence that several of your grandma’s old soap operas were set in a hospital. Serial dramas such as General Hospital were salaciously entertaining. within the real world however, that kind of drama in your professional life is far less enjoyable.

When it comes to workplace relationships, healthcare settings present unique challenges. Here are some key dos and don’ts for navigating workplace dating in a medical environment while still maintaining your professionalism.

1. DO follow your organization’s policies

Before beginning a workplace romance, consult your organization’s HR policies regarding workplace relationships. Some hospitals restrict dating within certain departments, especially between supervisors and direct reports. Familiarizing yourself with the policies can help you make informed decisions and avoid potential conflicts of interest.

2. DON’T date direct supervisors or subordinates

Avoid dating within direct supervisory lines, even if your organization permits it, since these relationships can lead to perceived or real conflicts of interest. Other employees may feel uncomfortable or anticipate favoritism, which could negatively impact team dynamics and morale. Instead, if you’re interested in someone within your organization, aim to connect with colleagues outside your immediate chain of command or department.

3. DO set boundaries and keep communication professional

In a healthcare setting, maintaining professionalism is essential for providing quality patient care and respecting patient privacy. Avoid discussing your relationship at work and be mindful not to let disagreements or romantic exchanges affect patient interactions or team dynamics. If you’re in a relationship with a colleague, it’s critical you establish boundaries around your professional interactions and ensure personal matters do not interfere with work responsibilities.

4. DON’T display affection at work

Keep in mind that patients are often in vulnerable situations and may rely on you to set an example of professional behavior, so it’s important to maintain a professional demeanor. Avoid physical displays of affection, private jokes or intimate conversations that may make others uncomfortable or disrupt the workplace environment. Keeping interactions strictly professional on the job can help safeguard the respect and trust you’ve earned from patients and colleagues. 

5. DO practice discretion outside work

While it is paramount to keep things professional at work, you also must consider how you interact with your partner in public places connected to your professional life, such as conferences or work events. Be mindful of how your behavior could reflect on your professional reputation, especially in environments where colleagues and supervisors may be present. Prioritize maintaining a respectful, low-key presence that aligns with workplace standards – even when off duty.

6. DON’T allow your relationship to impact patient care

Ensure your relationship does not influence clinical decisions or compromise patient care in any way. Quality patient care should remain your top priority! It is incumbent on you to never let personal matters interfere with your professional obligations. For example, if you’re experiencing relationship issues, strive to keep these concerns separate from your responsibilities with patients and your team.

7. DO plan for a professional exit strategy if needed

If the relationship doesn’t work out, establish a plan to continue working together in a professional manner. Workplace breakups can be challenging, but by handling the situation maturely and respectfully, you can minimize disruptions within your work environment. Setting ground rules for post-relationship interactions, especially if you work closely with your former partner, can be vital for maintaining a positive and professional atmosphere.

8. DON’T gossip or involve colleagues in personal issues

Discretion is mandatory if you want to keep a boundary between your personal life and your professional responsibilities. Sharing relationship details with coworkers can lead to unnecessary drama and may strain profession relationships. So, avoid the temptation to discuss personal issues with colleagues, as it can distract from work and create tension. This helps protect your reputation and keeps the focus firmly on patient care.

Workplace relationships in healthcare are possible. But they require balancing personal connections with professional responsibilities. By following these dos and don’ts, you can navigate a workplace romance with professionalism and respect for your partner, colleagues, patients and yourself. 

Always prioritize patient care and remember that your conduct, both in and out of the workplace, reflects your dedication to your role as a physician. Keeping this in mind can keep the drama out of your workplace and on your grandma’s television, where it belongs.

For more information about dating in the workplace or workplace environment and culture, please visit our Physician Resource Center at Practicelink.com.