1. Recognize and avoid conflict of interest where possible.

• There is a conflict of interest as you are close friends with another physiotherapist that you want to refer this patient to.
• It is important to consider that although you believe your friend will provide this patient with great care, it is your duty to try and avoid all conflicts of interest if at all possible.
  • Because you are working in a city that has multiple clinics that have had good success with prior patients, you should not refer this patient to your friend. You may, however, present your patient with the different clinic options available to them, however, avoid trying to influence/bias their opinion when presenting these options
  • The only situation where it would be okay to refer to this patient is if it was a smaller town where there were no other alternative treatment centers. Additionally, you must disclose and discuss the situation with the patient, still allowing them the opportunity to be as empowered in this decision as possible.
  • Document the discussion and the steps moving forward