The ETHICS Code

The ETHICS Code was developed in 1999 by leading experts in the fields of healthcare, law and mental health ( * ) to set ethical standards for healthcare organizations and individual professionals who practice online. The EthicsCode aims to guide professional healthcare boards, government and private agencies, as well as individual practitioners. The code is designed for professionals who provide clinical services online. The ETHICS Code is not meant as a guideline for professionals who render general or educational advice to the public. In general, clinicians who practice online must follow every professional and ethical principle pertaining to in-office care of clients. The following principles for online practitioners are considered a supplement to existing codes and standards which are issued by states and/or professional boards ( ** ). Adopting the ETHICS Code: Applications from professionals or organizations to link or use the ETHICS Code are welcome. Use e-mail link to get further instructions. Please note that the ETHICS Code can be displayed for FREE, but only after permission to do so was granted and if the site/person posting it is in full compliance with the guidelines.