
MEDICAL PROFESSION
Even the perception of a boundary crossing can harm a doctor’s reputation.
We think boundary challenges are common, often stressful, and could contribute to burnout.
NPS MedicineWise medical advisor Dr Caroline West speaks with A/Prof Lisa Lampe about burnout and the high cost for health professionals and patients.
Professional Boundaries
Research by the University of Newcastle’s School of Medicine and Public Health.
Few doctors and medical students receive training in how to navigate day-to-day challenges to professional boundaries.
Being prepared for boundary challenges helps reduce stress.
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THANK YOU
Thank you to every doctor and medical student that supported our research and shared their opinions in our anonymous online survey.
The data collection phase of the research has stopped and we are reviewing your feedback to better understand:
How often professional boundary challenges happen.
What resources, training, support or services you need.
Results will be available shortly. Sign up to receive a notification.
HIGH QUALITY RESEARCH
Skilled research team with experience & knowledge of real-world medical care

Research study funded by a grant provided by the Avant Foundation

University of Newcastle human ethics research committee approved

School of Medicine
& Public Health
The research is headed by A/Prof Lisa Lampe, MBBS, PhD at the University of Newcastle’s School of Medicine and Public Health.
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Why is the study needed?
1
MEDICAL PROFESSION
The medical profession is rewarding but can be demanding and stressful.
2
NAVIGATE BOUNDARIES
Few doctors & medical students receive training for professional boundary challenges.
3
TRAINING GAPS
Without training its harder
to build confidence in identifying and managing boundary challenges.
4
STRESS BURNOUT
Lack of confidence in managing boundary challenges may increase stress.
5
PATIENT HARM
Unpreparedness for boundary challenges can increase the risk of boundary crossings and harm patients.
6
CAREER IMPACT
Even the perception of a boundary crossing can harm a doctor’s reputation and career prospects

"By learning about the frequency and impact of non-sexual boundary challenges, we can find better ways to support doctors and medical students, personally and professionally."
A/Prof Lisa Lampe, MBBS, PhD

Putting Doctors & Medical Students First
We aim to learn more about the experiences of doctors and medical students in Australia.
Data analysis is currently underway and you can register to receive a notification when results become available.

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Prior training and confidence in dealing with boundary challenges of various types
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How frequently boundary challenges are encountered
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Impacts on levels of wellbeing, fulfillment, stress and burnout
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Whether challenges are more frequent or impactful in different settings or at different stages of training
Our survey is now closed.
DATA
ANALYSIS
IN PROGRESS
We hope that the opportunity to share your opinion and read tips and commentary on how to better manage non-sexual professional boundaries was helpful.
If you'd like to review or learn more about non-sexual professional boundaries a copy of all the Case Vignettes and Professional Commentary used in our research is available to download.


Contact Us
RESULTS AVAILABLE SOON
If you would like to be notified of the findings of our research contact us.
If you have any questions, please
contact the Chief Investigator
A/Professor Lisa Lampe by telephone at (02) 4033 9631 or via email: Lisa.Lampe@newcastle.edu.au