Who must adhere to medical ethics?

An overall code of ethics is expected of everyone who works in the health care field. The American Medical Association (AMA) is a professional association of physicians in the US, and as such, the Code of Medical Ethics adopted by the AMA is intended specifically for physicians. However, the principles described in the AMA’s Code represent concepts that are similar to those principles found in codes of professional ethics adopted by other health care-related associations, including, but not limited to:

• The American Nurses Association
• The National Association for Healthcare Quality
• The Health Care Compliance Association
• The American College of Healthcare Executives
• The American Association of Medical Assistants

The principles outlined in the American Medical Association's (AMA) Code of Medical Ethics serve as a foundational framework that resonates across various healthcare professions. While the specific responsibilities and considerations may vary depending on the role within the healthcare system, the overarching principles of beneficence, autonomy, nonmaleficence, justice, veracity, and confidentiality are universally applicable.

Other healthcare-related associations, such as the American Nurses Association, the National Association for Healthcare Quality, the Health Care Compliance Association, the American College of Healthcare Executives, and the American Association of Medical Assistants, also have their own codes of ethics or professional standards that reflect similar values and principles. These codes are designed to guide the conduct and decision-making of professionals within their respective fields and to ensure the delivery of high-quality, ethical care to patients.

While each profession may emphasize certain principles or considerations based on their unique roles and responsibilities, the underlying goal remains the same: to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and professionalism in the delivery of healthcare services. By adhering to these shared principles, healthcare professionals across different disciplines can work collaboratively to promote the well-being of patients and advance the overall goals of the healthcare system.