Code of Ethics/Conduct

Policy:

Ravenwood Health (agency) subscribes to a code of ethics and practice standards for all employees, contract staff, interns and volunteers of the agency. It is the belief at the agency that all employees, contract staff, interns, and volunteers shall be held to standards of conduct and practice. The agency also recognizes and abides by the Code of Ethics and conduct standards set forth by an employee, contract staff, intern or volunteer's existing professional discipline code and pertinent laws and statutes.

Procedure:

Agency Code of Ethics assists in clarifying the ethical responsibilities of employees, contract staff, interns, and volunteers and sets a precedent for appropriate behavior and conduct. The Ravenwood Health Code of Ethics also serves to hold agency employees, contract staff, interns, and volunteers accountable for their behavior and conduct.

A.    Ethical Standards

1.   The Principle of Beneficence - Promote good; enhance welfare.

2.   The Principle of Non-Malfeasance-Do no harm. Do not exploit one's position of power or influence for personal gain or gratification. Do not condone or engage in dual or multiple relationships in which there are risks of exploitation of or potential harm to another. Employees, contract staff, interns, and volunteers will not initiate social relationships with persons who come to Ravenwood Health for treatment and in cases of an existing social relationship between an employee, contract staff, intern, or volunteer and individual seeking treatment, all feasible measures will be taken to protect the client's privacy.

3.    The Principle of Autonomy- Promote and support consumer rights to choice and self-determination.

4.    The Principles of Fairness and Justice - Distribute resources equally. Perpetuate individual, civil and human rights, including the right to privacy, dignity, and confidentiality. Confront discrimination and stigma.

5.    The Principle of Veracity - Provide accurate and clear information regarding the extent and nature of the services available to a consumer. Maintain personal and professional integrity.

6.    The Principle of Informed Consent - Provide information about options, risks and potential consequences or treatment and services.

7.    The Principle of Confidentiality- Respect individuals' rights to control information about themselves.

8.    The Principle of Mandatory Reporting - Any mandatory reporting statutes will be reported as required by law, unless awareness of a violation occurs while serving in the peer review capacity or if such reporting violates the consumers' confidentiality rights.

9.    The Principle of Honest Billing - Clients are billed only for services they were provided, which is summarized on an itemized list, including the dates of service. Clients have access to full disclosure information regarding the source of reimbursement for their care.

10.   The Principle of Truthful Marketing - Marketing materials shall reflect only the services available and the specific level of licensure and/or accreditation.

11.    The Principle of Conflict of Interest- Individual and organizational relationships with other entities will not compromise the agency mission to the individuals or communities served.

12.    The Principle of Non-Discrimination - Employees, contract staff, interns, and volunteers will treat all persons without discrimination in relation to race, color, national origin, age, disability, military status, sex or religion, gender identity or sexual orientation. There shall be no distinction in eligibility for employment or professional services based on race, color, national origin, age, disability, military status, sex or religion, gender identity or sexual orientation.

B.   Accepting Gifts

1.     It is the policy of Ravenwood Health, that we do not accept gifts from clients, unless it is culturally indicated. If a client offers a gift to any agency staff member, agency staff members should thank the giver and explain that we are unable to accept gifts from clients. If it is a homemade gift of minimal monetary value and culturally validating, we may accept the gift on behalf of the agency. This policy is reviewed with all staff members upon hire. Should employees have questions about accepting gifts, they can consult with their supervisor.