As primary healthcare providers, osteopaths are expected to uphold high standards of care—but you are not obligated to tolerate abuse, threats, or boundary violations. Here’s what you need to know about refusing care, managing harassment, and staying safe.

 

Patients have rights under the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights, but they do not have the right to:

• Contact practitioners against their will

• Harass or intimidate others

• Bypass professional boundaries

As long as the clinic owner acts fairly, respectfully, and with documentation, they are well within their rights to:

• End the patient relationship

• Limit contact

• Prohibit entry

Can an osteopath end a therapeutic relationship?

Yes, osteopaths have the legal and ethical right to end a therapeutic relationship if it is no longer safe, appropriate, or effective. 

This is permitted under:

✅ Right 4(2) of the Code

"Every consumer has the right to have services provided that comply with legal, professional, ethical, and other relevant standards."

Which includes the right of the provider to:

• Ensure care is safe for both parties

• Maintain professional boundaries

• Decline or discontinue care when clinically or ethically justified

 

What are examples of ending the therapeutic relationship?

• Patient harassment (verbal, written, or physical)

• Inappropriate or sexualised behaviour in the clinic

• Persistent boundary-pushing, such as contacting your colleagues

• Non-payment for services

• Repeated no-shows or late cancellations

• The osteopath no longer feels safe, respected, or able to provide effective care

 

Note:
You are not required to tolerate abusive or inappropriate behaviour, even once

You do not need permission to end care

If the patient reacts negatively or threatens to complain, your clinical notes, factual documentation, and professional communication are your protection

 

What to do when a patient oversteps a professional boundary

1. If it has occurred in the room, immediately inform the patient that this behaviour is not tolerable and we will need to stop treatment. 

2. If you feel you are in danger or things feel off, position yourself between the door and the person (and be ready to call for help).

3. Inform the clinic owner immediately.

4. Document everything about what occurred. 

5. Call Osteopaths New Zealand or email Osteopaths New Zealand

 

You should also do a Cease and Desist Letter and if, appropriate, look to do a trespass notice.