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I saw a patient in an emergency setting seeking help for her heroin addiction. Patient did not go through with treatment offered and decided to continue her addiction for the time being.
Unfortunately, the patient happens to live on my block. She has seen me a couple of times walking home (likely knows where I live), and has recognized me, and said hello a few times. During our last encounter, the patient mentioned how she appreciated my concerns during the time that I saw her as a patient and if I would be willing to talk to her some more as a friend to come drop by her home. I dismissed the request, but I feel that we will inevitably continue to see each other throughout my residency since I mostly walk everywhere and she lives on my block.
I was wondering what are the ethics behind this decision, and what advise you would have in this situation?
Unfortunately, the patient happens to live on my block. She has seen me a couple of times walking home (likely knows where I live), and has recognized me, and said hello a few times. During our last encounter, the patient mentioned how she appreciated my concerns during the time that I saw her as a patient and if I would be willing to talk to her some more as a friend to come drop by her home. I dismissed the request, but I feel that we will inevitably continue to see each other throughout my residency since I mostly walk everywhere and she lives on my block.
I was wondering what are the ethics behind this decision, and what advise you would have in this situation?
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