Pharmacy Code of Ethics

Code of Ethics

• A public pledge to fulfill responsibilities and duties for those who lack knowledge, expertise, or a professional mandate.
• A code prepared and supported by pharmacists states the principles for their roles and responsibilities.

Code of Ethics History

• The Philadelphia College of Pharmacy adopted its code of ethics in 1848.
• The American pharmacy code of ethics was first legislated in 1852.
• The code has since been revised multiple times (1922, 1952, 1969, 1981, 1994).
• The 2007 oath taken at pharmacy school graduation involves pharmacists’ respect for personal and health information, while preparing future pharmacists.

Principles of Code of Ethics

• Place the patient's well-being as the primary concern.
• Use professional judgment for the benefit of patients and the public.
• Respect others.
• Encourage patients to be involved in decisions about their healthcare.
• Enhance professional knowledge and competence.
• Maintain honesty and trustworthiness.
• Accept accountability for working practices.

Caring for Patients

• Promote individual and community health.
• Protect patients, especially children and vulnerable individuals.
• Get the information needed to assess a patient’s needs.
• Actions and behaviors can affect patient care and safety, even without direct contact.

Professional Judgement

• Use available resources effectively.
• Challenge colleagues and healthcare professionals if their decisions risk the safety of others.

Respecting Others

• Recognize diversity and respect various cultural differences, values, and beliefs.
• Avoid prescribing drugs with alcohol for Muslim patients.
• Respect the dignity and privacy of others.

Patient Participation

• Explain available options and help people make informed decisions.
• Ensure consumers understand the risks and benefits of medication management and care.
• Provide information that is understandable, relevant, and current.
• Respect a patient's right to refuse treatment, care, or other professional services.
• Identify and address factors that prevent patients from getting treatment.

Professional Development

• Keep knowledge and skills current with evidence-based practices related to roles and responsibilities.
• Apply current knowledge and skills to professional responsibilities.
• Respond constructively to assessments, appraisals, and reviews, by undertaking further training if needed.

Honesty and Trustworthiness

• Uphold public trust through honesty.
• Do not exploit a professional position for personal gain.
• Avoid accepting gifts, hospitality, or referrals that could compromise judgment.
• Adhere to legal requirements and best practices.

Workplace Responsibility

• Communicate and collaborate with colleagues from different professions to serve patients.
• Ensure appropriate standards exist and are followed.
• Make sure working conditions do not compromise patient safety.

Code of Ethics Application

• Follow ethical principles to ensure adherence to ethical standards and professional accountability.
• Use professional judgment to allow for informed decision-making when applying ethical guidelines.
• Justify actions to prepare for accountability and explanations of decisions.