How Doctors Can Handle Sexist Patients Professionally

How to Deal with Sexist Patients

1. Understanding the Challenge of Sexist Patients
Sexism in medicine remains a persistent issue, and dealing with sexist patients can be a frustrating and emotionally taxing experience. Some patients hold outdated gender biases, making inappropriate remarks or questioning a doctor’s competence based on their gender. Understanding how to navigate these interactions professionally while maintaining self-respect is crucial for all healthcare providers.

2. Recognizing Different Forms of Sexism in Medicine
Sexist behavior from patients can manifest in various ways, including:

• Undermining Competence: Assuming a female doctor is a nurse or a male nurse is less capable.
  
  
• Patronizing Language: Using diminutive language such as "sweetheart" or "honey" instead of addressing a doctor by their title.
  
  
• Refusing Care Based on Gender: Some patients explicitly request a doctor of a specific gender, implying that one gender is more competent than the other.
  
  
• Inappropriate Comments: Patients making suggestive or sexist remarks about a doctor’s appearance or gender roles.
  
  
• Microaggressions: Subtle behaviors, such as addressing male doctors formally but female doctors informally, can reflect underlying biases.
  

3. Establishing Professional Boundaries
Setting firm boundaries is essential when dealing with sexist patients. Strategies include:

• Correcting Patients Calmly: If a patient assumes you are not the doctor, correct them professionally: “I am Dr. [Last Name], and I will be overseeing your care today.”
  
  
• Reinforcing Professional Titles: Insist on being addressed as “Doctor” rather than informal names.
  
  
• Using a Firm but Respectful Tone: Statements such as, “I would appreciate it if we kept this conversation professional” can help shut down inappropriate comments.
  
  
• Redirecting the Conversation: If a patient insists on gender-based stereotypes, refocus the discussion on their medical needs.
  

4. Remaining Composed Under Pressure
Sexist comments can be frustrating, but maintaining composure ensures professionalism. Tactics include:

• Practicing Emotional Detachment: Recognizing that a patient’s biases are not a reflection of your abilities.
  
  
• Taking a Deep Breath Before Responding: This prevents reactive, emotional responses that might escalate the situation.
  
  
• Using Humor (If Appropriate): In some cases, lighthearted humor can defuse tension and subtly correct sexist remarks.
  

5. Addressing Requests for a Doctor of a Specific Gender
When patients request a doctor based on gender, institutions should have policies in place:

• Assessing the Request’s Validity: If the request is based on religious or cultural reasons, it may warrant accommodation.
  
  
• Reinforcing Competence Over Gender: A response like, “All of our physicians are highly qualified to provide the best care, regardless of gender” can help challenge biases.
  
  
• Standing Firm When Necessary: If the request is purely sexist, politely declining and reinforcing professional standards is appropriate.
  

6. Leveraging Institutional Support
Hospitals and clinics should have policies to protect healthcare providers from discrimination. Steps include:

• Reporting Incidents: If a patient is repeatedly sexist, document and report their behavior to hospital administration.
  
  
• Seeking Support from Colleagues: Discussing experiences with trusted colleagues or mentors can provide guidance and solidarity.
  
  
• Using a Chaperone When Needed: If a patient is persistently inappropriate, having another staff member present can provide protection and accountability.
  

7. Educating Patients to Challenge Gender Biases
Some patients may not realize their biases. Taking the opportunity to educate them can be beneficial:

• Gently Correcting Misconceptions: “In modern medicine, gender doesn’t determine skill level—years of training and experience do.”
  
  
• Highlighting Achievements: Subtly referencing your credentials and experience can reinforce your authority.
  
  
• Encouraging Institutional Awareness: Advocating for diversity training in healthcare settings can improve awareness among both staff and patients.
  

8. Handling Sexist Remarks and Harassment
If a patient crosses the line into harassment, stronger action is required:

• Clearly Stating That the Behavior is Unacceptable: “I do not tolerate inappropriate comments in my practice.”
  
  
• Involving Security or Administration: If a patient is persistently harassing staff, removing them from care may be necessary.
  
  
• Knowing Your Rights: Understanding legal protections against workplace discrimination can empower healthcare providers.
  

9. Fostering a Culture of Respect in Healthcare
Creating an environment where sexism is not tolerated benefits both providers and patients. Strategies include:

• Training Staff to Respond to Sexism: Ensuring all healthcare workers have strategies to address discrimination.
  
  
• Encouraging Open Discussions: Providing safe spaces for doctors to share their experiences and find solutions.
  
  
• Promoting Diversity in Leadership: A diverse leadership team can reinforce gender equity in medicine.
  

10. Moving Forward with Confidence
Dealing with sexist patients is challenging, but healthcare professionals should never feel undermined due to their gender. Standing firm, addressing biases professionally, and seeking institutional support are essential strategies to navigate these interactions while maintaining personal and professional dignity.