Code of Ethics
Admission to any level of membership is conditional upon a formal signed agreement with, acceptance of, and adherence to, the following ICIM Code of ethics and standards of conduct.
Members must at all times endeavour to uphold the highest standards in compliance with:
- Respect the privacy, integrity, dignity and independence of all patients or clients seeking treatment, complementary health care, management and advice.
- Treat clients and patients openly and fairly with respect, without discrimination regarding religious denomination, ethnic, cultural or political belief.
- Always refer patients/clients to appropriately qualified orthodox medical practitioners for diagnosis and treatment, should any presenting symptoms appear or later occur beyond your level of competency.
- Inform clients of the proposed treatment or therapeutic framework at the onset and explain any changes that may occur during the course of service.
- Not betray or abuse the trust of anyone seeking help and also to inform clients of available alternatives, potential risks and costs of proposed treatment.
- Not over service or exploit anyone, in accordance with good and proper practice objectives.
- Enable clients to make informed choices about the services being offered.
- Inform members of the public of costs and fees and/or potential costs and fees in advance of services to be rendered.
- Ensure for appropriate measures of privacy by taking reasonable precautions to respect client confidentiality, specifically in maintaining security in storing information.
- Gain signed authority and informed permission from any person taking part in research studies or teaching, to protect the person or others from harm.
- Take reasonable measures in research, anecdotal studies or publications to avoid any potential identifying information in protecting the individual's rights of privacy.
The Creed
- I shall seek to preserve the highest standards for my work in serving others.
- I will offer my skills freely for the equivalent of at least three days voluntary work, annually.
- I shall conduct myself ethically.
- I shall always seek objectivity with sensitivity.
- I shall avoid conflicts of professional interest.
- I will continue professional development throughout my career through continuing education, seminars and other studies.
- I will share my knowledge and experience with others in a professional manner.
- I will express my opinion based only upon my knowledge, skill, education, training and experience.
- The light of knowledge and benevolence shall guide me.
- To all these things, I respectfully affirm and uphold.