What is a potential ethical concern when a doctor treats friends or family members?

The potential ethical concern when a doctor treats friends or family members primarily revolves around possible bias in treatment decisions. This bias can affect the objectivity that a healthcare professional is expected to maintain. When treating someone they know personally, a doctor may unconsciously let personal feelings or relationships influence their clinical judgment. This can lead to either overly aggressive treatment options due to emotional investment, or alternatively, inadequate treatment because the physician might downplay their patient's needs to avoid conflicts or discontent within the relationship.

Maintaining professional boundaries is crucial in healthcare to ensure that all patients receive the same level of care and attention, regardless of personal connections. Thus, recognizing the risk of bias when treating acquaintances serves to uphold ethical standards in medical practice, ensuring that care decisions are based on clinical evidence and the best interests of the patient rather than personal connections.