CODE OF ETHICS

The overall objective of this organization is to enhance the overall quality of life, dignity and well being of every individual needing its services; and to create a more equitable, accessible and efficient health care system.

All members of the organization have the obligation to act in ways that will merit the trust, confidence and respect of its patients, other health care providers, business contacts, and society as a whole.  To do so, we must lead lives that embody an exemplary system of values and ethics.

In fulfilling our commitments and obligations to those we serve, we act as moral agents.  Since every decision affects the health and well being of both individuals and communities, we must evaluate the possible outcomes of those decisions and accept full responsibility of the consequences.  We must safeguard and foster the rights, interests and prerogatives of those we serve.  The role of moral agent requires that health care providers speak out and take actions necessary to promote such rights, interests and prerogatives if they are threatened.

To maintain the ethical conduct and integrity of the health care services we provide, we pledge to abide by the following without reservation:

I.  Members responsibilities to the organization:

1. Uphold the values, ethics and mission of the organization.

2. Conduct all personal and professional activities with honesty, integrity, respect, fairness and good faith in a manner that will reflect well upon the organization.

3. Comply with all laws and regulations that apply in the conduct of organizational or personal activities.

4. Maintain competence and proficiency in health care industry, and general business standards by personal assessment and continuing education programs.

5. Avoid the exploitation of professional relationships for personal gain.  Respect confidences.

6. Refrain from participating in any endorsement or publicity that demeans the credibility and dignity of the organization.

7. Assure that no conflict of interest exists in any dealing involving the organization.

8. Use this code to further the interests of the organization and to report any alleged violations to managment.

II. Members responsibilities to those served and the community:

1. Provide health care services consistent with available resources and assure the existence of a resource allocation process that considers ethical ramifications.

2. Conduct both competitive and cooperative activities in ways that improve community health care services.

3. Continuous improvement in business management techniques.

4. Respect of the customs and practices of those served, consistent with the organization's philosophy.

5. Be truthful in all forms of communication and avoid information that is false, misleading, and deceptive or information that would create unreasonable expectations.

6. Enhance the dignity and image of the organization through marketing, public relations, and educational programs.

7. Assure the existence of a process to evaluate the quality of care or services rendered.

8. Avoid exploitation of relationships for personal advantage.

9. Avoid practicing or facilitating discrimination and institute safeguards to prevent discriminatory organizational practices.

10. Advise patients of rights, responsibilities and risks regarding services provided.

11. Assure confidentiality, autonomy and self-determination of patients and others served.

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