Sexual or romantic relationships with former patients are unethical if the physician uses or exploits trust, knowledge, emotions, or influence derived from the previous professional relationship, or if a romantic relationship would otherwise foreseeably harm the individual.

Is it illegal to have relations with a patient?

Romantic relationships with patients violate the ethical standards of most medical professions. Romantic or sexual relationships with patients are even illegal in some states. Even without the threat of malpractice, a romantic or sexual relationship with a patient may end up costing a doctor or therapist his job.