American Pharmaceutical Association Code of Ethics
The National Professional Society of Pharmacists
CODE OF ETHICS
PREAMBLE
Pharmacists are health professionals who assist individuals
in making the best use of medications. This Code, prepared
and supported by pharmacists, is intended to state publicly
the principles that form the fundamental basis of the roles
and responsibilities of pharmacists. These principles, based
on moral obligations and virtues, are established to guide
pharmacists in relationships with patients, health professionals,
and society.
A pharmacist respects the covenantal relationship between
the patient and pharmacist.
Considering the patient-pharmacist relationship as a covenant
means that a pharmacist has moral obligations in response
to the gift of trust received from society. In return for
this gift, a pharmacist promises to help individuals achieve
optimum benefit from their medications, to be committed to
their welfare, and to maintain their trust.
A pharmacist promotes the good of every patient in a caring,
compassionate, and confidential manner.
A pharmacist places concern for the well-being of the patient
at the center of
professional practice. In doing so, a pharmacist considers
needs stated by the patient as well as those defined by health
science. A pharmacist is dedicated to protecting the dignity
of the patient. With a caring attitude and a compassionate
spirit, a pharmacist focuses on serving the patient in a private
and confidential manner.
111. A pharmacist respects the autonomy and dignity of each
patient.
A pharmacist promotes the right of self-determination and
recognizes individual self-worth by encouraging patients to
participate in decisions about their health. A pharmacist
communicates with patients in terms that are understandable.
In all cases, a pharmacist respects personal and cultural
differences among patients.
IV. A pharmacist acts with honesty and integrity in professional
relationships.
A pharmacist has a duty to tell the truth and to act with
conviction of conscience. A pharmacist avoids discriminatory
practices, behavior or work conditions that impair professional
judgment, and actions that compromise dedication to the best
interests of patients.
V. A pharmacist maintains professional competence.
A pharmacist has a duty to maintain knowledge and abilities
as new medications, devices, and technologies become available
and as health information advances.
VI. A pharmacist respects the values and abilities of colleagues
and other health
professionals.
When appropriate, a pharmacist asks for the consultation of
colleagues or other health professionals or refers the patient.
A pharmacist acknowledges that colleagues and other health
professionals may differ in the beliefs and values they apply
to the care of the patient.
VII. A pharmacist serves individual, community, and societal
needs.
The primary obligation of a pharmacist is to individual patients.
However, the obligations of a pharmacist may at times extend
beyond the individual to the community and society. In these
situations, the pharmacist recognizes the responsibilities
that accompany these obligations and acts accordingly.
VIII. A pharmacist seeks justice in the distribution of health
resources.
When health resources are allocated, a pharmacist is fair
and equitable, balancing the needs of patients and society.
adopted by the membership of the American Pharmaceutical Association
October 27,1994.
