Code of Ethics (Full Version)

Preamble

As Natural Health Practitioners we believe in the science and the art of the human body. We are health professionals who work with our patients / clients to achieve and maintain their good health and wellbeing, using natural means. We aim for collaborative relationships and partnerships with our allied and biomedical colleagues to provide the best healthcare for our patients / clients.

By not violating this code, may we enjoy life and art, respected while we live and be remembered with affection thereafter. May we always act to preserve the finest traditions of our calling and may we long experience the joy of healing those who seek our help.

This Code, prepared and supported by The Source of Wellness, states the priciples that form the fundamental basis of the roles and responsibilities of Practitioners at our clinic. These principles, based on moral obligations and virtues, are established to guide our practitioners, therapists, and teachers in relationships with patients, clients, other health professionals, and society.

Respect for Patient / Practitioner Relationship

A Natural Health Practitioner respects the covenantal relationship between patient and practitioner.

Considering the relationship as a covenant means our natural health practitioners have moral obligations in response to the gift of trust received from her or his client and society. In return for this gift, our practitioners promise to help individuals achieve optimum benefit from their treatments, to be committed to their welfare, and to maintain their trust.

Patient's Best Interests & Health Are Key

A Natural Health Practitioner promotes the good of every patient in a caring, compassionate, and confidential manner.

We place concern for the wellbeing of the patient at the centre of our professional practice. In doing so, our natural health practitioners consider needs stated by the patient as well as those defined by health science. With a caring attitude and a compassionate spirit, we focus on serving our patients in a private and confidential manner.

Patient Participation In Their Treatment Plan

A Natural Health Practitioner respects the autonomy and dignity of each patient and the right of self-determination. We promote individual self-worth by encouraging patients to participate in decisions about their health.

A natural health practitioner communicates with patients in terms that are understandable. In all cases, a natural health practitioner respects personal and cultural differences among patients.

Open, Honest, Non-Discriminatory Practice

A Natural Health Practitioner acts with honesty and integrity in professional relationships.

We have a duty to tell the truth and to act with conviction of conscience. A natural health practitioner avoids discriminatory practices, behaviour or work conditions that impair professional judgment, and actions that compromise dedication to the best interests of patients.

Natural health practitioners respect a patient’s privacy, with communications held in confidence unless information is required in a medical emergency or with the consent of the patient.

Ongoing Professional Education

We maintain professional competence and have a duty to maintain knowledge and abilities as new treatment techniques, aids, and technologies become available and as health information advances.

Respect For Other Health Professionals

A Natural Health Practitioner respects the values and abilities of colleagues and other health professionals.

When appropriate, a natural health practitioner asks for the consultation of colleagues or other health professionals or refers the patient. We acknowledge that colleagues and other health professionals may differ in the beliefs and values they apply to the care of the patient.

Practitioner Obligations To Community

A Natural Health Practitioner serves individual, community, and societal needs.

The primary obligation of a natural health practitioner is to individual patients. However, the obligations of a natural health practitioner may at times extend beyond the individual to the community and society. In these situations, the natural health practitioner recognises the responsibilities that accompany these obligations and acts accordingly.

Fair & Equitable Distribution Of Knowledge

A Natural Health Practitioner seeks justice in the distribution of health resources especially knowledge to promote self-empowerment for our patients.