Sample Ethics Policy - Administrator's Corner

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Sample Ethics Policy

Topic: Administrator's Corner > Ethics

2005-08-26

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Here's a sample of an Ethics policy:

POLICY ON CODE OF CONDUCT, ETHICS AND ETHICS VIOLATIONS

A. PURPOSE

To define and publish the policy of Counseling Associates, Inc. as it relates to professional ethics and related expectations for professional staff.

B. POLICY

It is recognized that no single policy can cover all conceivable situations which may occur regarding ethics and conduct. As a general policy, however, the Board of Directors of Counseling Associates expects all staff members to possess and adhere to the highest personal and professional standards of ethics and conduct themselves in a manner consistent with CAI's organizational philosophy and professional values. Given the broad range of situations involving ethics and conduct-related issues, it is impossible to provide "all inclusive" guidance sufficient to cover all situations that may be encountered. In general, however, it is expected that all CAI staff members will:

- Act in accordance with the standards of professional practice established by their respective professions;

- Hold himself/herself responsible for the delivery of the highest quality care to persons served;

- Adhere to all applicable federal, state and local regulations for the delivery and administration of behavioral healthcare services;

- Seek guidance from the appropriate CAI supervisor before acting in situations not clearly covered by organizational or professional codes of ethics;

- Support the principle that competent job performance requires continuing professional growth, development and education and toward that end, avail themselves to all appropriate opportunities for workforce development training; and

- Periodically review the ethical standards established for their respective professions and discuss ethical issues, questions and concerns as a matter of routine clinical supervision.

In the event that an ethics or "conduct" violation is suspected, Counseling Associates, Inc. is committed to the expeditious and objective investigation and resolution of the violation and to the greatest extent possible, corrective action to prevent future occurrences.

C. PROCEDURE

If a staff member discovers or suspects that an ethics violation has occurred, the staff member should report the alleged violation to his/her supervisor. In the event that a supervisor is suspected of violating ethical standards, the staff member who discovers the suspected violation will report the violation to the next "level" in his or her "chain of command". The supervisor who ultimately receives the report of the alleged violation is responsible for reporting the situation to the responsible Vice President of Clinical Programs within two (2) working days who will, in turn, conduct an investigation into the alleged complaint. The Vice Presidents of Clinical Services have the option of investigating the alleged violation personally or assigning investigative responsibility to a senior staff member but, will retain ultimate responsibility for accurate and timely investigation and any recommendations resulting from the investigative process. All investigations involving alleged violations of ethical standards will be completed within eight (8) working days after the investigation is initiated. Results of the investigation - including any recommendations for administrative or disciplinary action - will be provided in writing to the Executive Director via the Executive Vice President for review/approval. The Executive Director's review will be completed within five (5) working days with a written response provided to all parties concerned. In summary, the entire investigative process is to be completed within 15 working days.

In the event that the organization renders a decision involving an ethics complaint/investigation that is unfavorable to a CAI employee, the employee retains the right to seek further redress. Specific details for such redress are contained in the Administrative Operations Manual under "Policy on Grievance Procedures".

Thanks to Steve Minner, PhD, from a CARF presentation 2002

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