Flat refusal to answer such questions is good. And the parents should be in the room to make sure nothing inappropriate, such as intrusive questions, occur.
If you, the patient or parent, file a formal written complaint with the offending doctor’s HMO or medical group, your complaint will be taken seriously. The doctor will be asked to respond to it. In any case, your polite but firm protest will be a black mark on his or her record that will likely make him or her think twice before repeating the offense.
Patients not enrolled in a health plan (HMO) might see a doctor in a small group practice or solo practice. Boundary violations by a doctor in this case can be reported to your county medical society. Although federal anti-trust laws have mostly stripped medical societies of their enforcement powers, they can still get an erring physician’s attention.
Medicine has become an extremely competitive service industry. Medical groups are trying harder than ever to please consumers. The last thing a doctor wants these days, next to a malpractice suit, is a patient complaint alleging unethical conduct.
If the doctor persists or is especially inappropriate, you can send that written complaint to your state medical licensing board. For instructions on filing a complaint go to the web site of your state government or look in the phone book for the board’s listing. This is a last resort, and it will be a definite blemish on the doctor’s career. But it may be necessary for repeat offenders. This step will apply enormous pressure on the offending physician, even if the state board takes no official action against his or her license.
These complaints will effect their insurance rates. You will hit the doctor right in the pocket. If you want to stop something make it cost money. Doctors are making less money every year. Increase their expenses and this crap will stop.