B.H.T.A. CODE OF CONDUCT BACK
Everyone who qualifies for the BHTA Registration Scheme is bound by a strictly enforced Code of Conduct under which they undertake to:
Act at all times in such a manner as to justify public trust and confidence, to uphold and enhance the good standing and reputation of the healthcare industry, to serve the best interests of society and, above all, to safeguard the interests of individual customers.
Be accountable for his/her own working practices and, in the exercise of such accountability to:
- act, at all times, within the law of the land and in a manner befitting a professional worker in the healthcare field.
- act, at that no action or omission under his/her control is detrimental to the condition or general safety of a customer at all times, in such a way as to promote and safeguard the well-being and interests of customers.
- ensure that no action or omission under his/her control is detrimental to the conditions general safety of a customer.
- take every reasonable opportunity to maintain and enhance knowledge and competence within his/her field of work.
- acknowledge any limitation of competence and refuse in such cases to accept delegated functions without first having received instruction in regard to those functions and having been assessed as competent
- work in a collaborative manner with healthcare professionals (such as doctors, consultants, occupational therapists, physiotherapists etc) and recognise and respect the contribution of all within the healthcare team.
- take account of the customs, values and spiritual beliefs of customers.
- make known to an appropriate person or authority any conscientious objection that may be relevant to the performance of his/her duties.
- ensure that the customer is fully informed, and this is recorded, before seeking his/her signed consent to an intervention, or to a purchase.
- Ensure that there is not abuse of the privileged relationship that exists with customers or of the privileged access allowed to their property, residence or workplace.
- respect the confidentiality of information obtained during the course of his/her work and to disclose such information without the consent of the customer concerned or a person entitled to act on their behalf, except where such disclosure is required by law.
- assist colleagues, wherever possible, to develop competence in relation to the needs of their work
- refuse to accept any gift, favour or hospitality that is intended to exert undue influence to obtain preferential consideration. While it may be appropriate, on occasions, to accept small gifts or tokens of thanks from customers, theses should always be disclosed to relevant senior staff and, where necessary, advice sought.
- promote the development of knowledge and expertise in the field of healthcare.
To abide by any additional Code(s) of Practice covering particular sectors or functions within the healthcare field relevant to his/her employment.
To advise the registration authority, without delay, of any change in personal circumstances that might affect registrability.