AGPT registrars can commence applying to practices for the 2025.2 placement round through the Training Management System (TMS) from Monday, 28 April. Due to this, we are anticipating higher-than-usual traffic to our TMS. Although this may result in slower load times, we will actively be monitoring TMS performance and making necessary changes to remediate any issues. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience and understanding.

Responding to sexual harassment by patients: A brief guide for general practices

Responding to stalking

Table of contents

How can I respond if a patient is stalking me?

If a patient is stalking you, contact your medical defence organisation (MDO) and local police for advice that is specific to your situation.

General strategies for managing stalking include:^13–15

reiterating the professional nature of the relationship
if necessary, outlining the limits of the doctor–patient relationship in more detail; for example, by specifying you do not have contact with patients outside consulting hours
avoiding suggesting that you are unavailable for a relationship because you have a partner
carefully documenting each incident, with details of time, date and any witnesses
retaining all evidence (for example, text or voice messages, gifts, emails or letters)
discontinuing care of the patient (see next section)
advising colleagues in the workplace to assist you to preserve your own safety and that of others at the practice
advising relevant family members to help them to preserve your and their own safety
contacting police and considering an intervention/restraining order against the patient

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