Medical ethics is currently based on the principles of respect for persons, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice. The principle of respect for persons emphasizes respect for patient autonomy- the duty to protect and foster a patient's voluntary informed choices, and truth-telling. The principle of beneficence defines the duty to promote good and act in the best interest of the patient and the health of society. The principle of non-maleficence refers to the duty to do no harm to patients. Finally, the principle of justice must inform the physician's role as a citizen and his/her decisions on resource allocations. In facing challenges to resolve many issues in the delivery of care, the physician needs the virtues of compassion, courage and patience.

In preparing this set of guidelines, the Ad Hoc Ethics Committee was careful that it remains a reflection of the ethical principles embodied in the PCP Code of Ethics. The Guidelines attempts to clarify how ethical principles are applied to specific health care conditions like futile treatments, alternative care, terminal illness, genetic testing, and reproductive health even as we strongly believe that these guidelines cannot be a substitute for the wisdom gained from experience and the integrity of individual physicians.

Since these guidelines are also meant to be used as basis for decisions/ actions in the resolution of conflicts, it defines the composition, duties and responsibilities of the members of the Ethics Committee and describes the process by which ethical issues and complaints are addressed.

In putting together this set of Implementing Rules and Regulations, the Philippine College of Physicians has made an important step in fulfilling its duty to set standards of behavior for its members towards their patients, colleagues, other health professionals, and the health industry. Additionally, through this Guidelines, the PCP upholds the duties of it members to the community and country. Clearly, it reminds of the shared obligations and duties of the medical profession.

The PCP Ad hoc Ethics Committee
September 2008-March 2009

CODE OF MEDICAL ETHICS

PREFACE

All members (Affiliate Members, Full Members [Diplomate ], Fellows) of the College are deemed covered by the provisions of this code.

The principles laid down in this code are of general application and will serve as the basis for the guidelines in the practice of internal medicine concerning ethical practice and good conduct. They represent what we espouse as true professionals and as an organization working for the highest standards of professionalism, ethics and medical practice.

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

Section 1

All members shall be exemplary in their behavior as members of the community and of the profession. They shall work harmoniously and regard as uppermost the best interest of patients who are entrusted to their care. Although the internist is entitled to just compensation, patients’ welfare should be primary.

Section 2

The internist shall continuously update his professional knowledge and skill by participation and involvement in all forms of relevant learning activities.

DUTIES TO PATIENTS

The internist shall ensure that the patient’s best interest is safeguarded. He is obliged to inform his patient as to the nature of illness, diagnosis, progress of care and prognosis.

He is expected to respect confidentiality on all information entrusted to him by the patient unless a legal waiver has been given and authorized.

The internist is entitled to a reasonable compensation commensurate to his efforts and expertise taking into account the patient’s capacity to pay.

DUTIES TO COLLEAGUES IN THE PROFESSION

There must be harmonious relationship among the members. An internist shall be expected to render gratuitous and just service to licensed practicing physicians and their immediate dependents.

The internist shall be circumspect when making remarks about other physicians.

RELATIONSHIP WITH ALLIED PROFESSIONS

Communications between the Internist and nurses and other allied professionals, shall be characterized by mutual respect, always taking into account the welfare and best interest of the patient. Sharing of medical opinions as to the condition of the patient should always be welcome.

RELATIONSHIP WITH PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY

The internist’s decision for patient’s care which includes prescription of medicines and use of necessary equipment shall be determined first and foremost by the patient’s welfare

Sponsorship to medical seminars and conventions by the pharmaceutical industry must ultimately redound to the benefit of the patient particularly in the advancement of scientific knowledge of the Internist.

RELATIONSHIP TO THE COMMUNITY

The honorable standing of the profession should not be stained by any form of advertisement.

Advocacy in all matters affecting people’s health and the practice of the profession should be strongly encouraged.