A new era – Updated AMA Code of Ethics

On 17 March 2017, the AMA releases its revised Code of Ethics (view here). The 2004 Code of Ethics was last updated in 2006.

The AMA’s media release notes that the updated AMA Code of Ethics for the first time addresses:

•  close personal relationships;
•  patients with impaired or limited decision-making capacity;
• patients’ family members, carers and significant others including support persons;
• working with colleagues including bullying and harassment;
• working with other health care professionals;
• supervising/mentoring; and
• health standards, quality and safety.

The media release also notes that the updated Code provides greater clarity on consent; conscientious objection; complaints; control of patient information; fees; professional boundaries; managing interests; stewardship; medico-legal responsibilities; and protecting others from harm. The revised Code has had input from MDA National and Avant as well as the Medical Board of Australia, to ensure that it does not conflict with the medico-legal advice provided by those medical indemnity insurers or the Code of Conduct issued by the Medical Board of Australia.

Post by Karen Kumar