A 36-Year-Old Lady with Well-Controlled Asthma and Hypothyroidism Arrives at the Clinic

A 36-year-old lady with well-controlled asthma and hypothyroidism arrives at the clinic to consult with her primary care physician about recent thyroid function testing. For the past eight years, she has been his patient. She reveals during the appointment that she is just divorced and has had problems meeting "educated and fascinating" guys. When the patient notices that the doctor is not wearing a wedding band, he questions whether he is single. "Yes, why do you ask?" says the doctor. The patient responds that she was wondering whether he would go out to supper now that they are both single. The doctor has always thought the patient was lovely and want to accept the offer. Which of the following responses to the patient's request is most appropriate?

A) Accept the invitation as it was the patient, not the physician, who initiated it
B) Accept the invitation as the romantic interest is mutual
C) Accept the invitation but suggest that the patient change providers if she is uncomfortable continuing under his care
D) Decline the invitation, explaining that going on a date with her would be unethical
E) Decline the invitation, explaining that it is inappropriate for the patient to ask for a date
F) Decline the invitation, explaining that the physician-patient relationship must be terminated before going on a date