Chiropractor guilty of professional misconduct following consensual relationship with client

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A 2024 Queensland tribunal decision reinforces the strict professional boundaries required of health practitioners. In Health Ombudsman v MKY (No. 2) [2024] QCAT 336, a chiropractor was found guilty of professional misconduct after engaging in a consensual sexual relationship with a long-term client. Despite no evidence of harm, exploitation or ongoing risk, the practitioner faced serious disciplinary action.

This blog explores the reasoning behind the decision and key lessons for health professionals navigating professional conduct standards.

Facts of the sexual relationship

In this case, the practitioner (MKY) was a chiropractor who had been treating a client (Ms D), as well as various members of her family, for over 15 years. In the latter 18 months of that period, MKY and Ms D conducted an "entirely consensual sexual relationship."