Our Code of Ethics

The Code of Ethics for IPHM Members

The Code of Ethics describes the basic ethical principles that all the complementary health practitioners agree to and commit themselves to.  It offers the inspiration of a joint commitment to excellence as well as to the security of a complaints procedure to the client.  These principles still apply if we are offering training, supervision or support, in groups or individually.

Ethical Principles

The Relationship between Practitioner and Client

• We acknowledge that the relationship between practitioner and client is a special one and must serve the best interests of the client.  A good working relationship is an essential part of effective treatment.  The practitioner carries certain responsibilities and any exploitation of this position or oppression of the client is unethical.  Sexual activity between practitioner and client within this relationship is totally inappropriate and unethical.  Affectionate gestures, such as hugging may be used in a sensitive way and only when acceptable to both parties.  We will ensure that satisfaction of our emotional needs does not intrude on the relationship. 
• The client's dignity and integrity must be respected at all times.  We affirm the client's right of self-determination.  One goal of our work is to enhance his or her progress in the direction of self-responsibility.  The client always has the right to refuse or terminate anything proposed or undertaken by the practitioner.  We make this explicit at the beginning of the relationship. 
• The practitioner and client make a mutually acceptable clear contract which addresses precisely and openly the questions of fees, time involved, frequency and number of sessions, technique of treatment, limits and ground rules, confidentiality, availability of follow-up, referrals etc.  as appropriate.  We make available to the client the Code of Ethics and Practice we work under. 
• We recognise that there can be a duality of roles wherein a possible conflict of interests may occur.  Wherever this is applicable this will be discussed openly before any treatment starts.  It is our responsibility to make boundaries explicit and clear.  We retain the right not to work with certain people but not in a way that would result in unfair discrimination. 

Confidentiality and Records

• The relationship and all knowledge of the client is treated as confidential by the practitioner and may only be disclosed with the client's specific consent or - if there is a clear evidence of probably serious danger - to the client or others.  For supervision, research, teaching and publication purposes the identity of the client must be concealed. 
• We keep records of the sessions in a confidential and appropriate way and our records about the client should be available for their inspection. 

Practitioner's Support and Further Education

Each practitioner carefully monitors the limits of their own competence and confines their work within these limits. 

• We commit ourselves to
  • maintain and extend our knowledge and skills appropriate to our practice; 
  • getting extra support and supervision as required; 
  • pursue our personal growth, spiritual practice and the fulfilment of our personal needs outside our complementary health practice. 

Advertising

Advertising will be confined to descriptive statements about services available and details of methods and qualifications, without comparative evaluation or extravagant claims about the efficacy of our practice method. 

Complaints Procedure

• In the case of any complaint, this should be first addressed directly to the practitioner and/or then to their professional association.  If this is not possible or doesn't lead to a satisfactory result, a formal written complaint may be made to IPHM where it will be bought before our Accreditation Board.  The complainant must sign a declaration that they will accept the recommendations given by our Ethics panel. IPHM members must abide by this decision. 

IPHM Practitioners should Always:-

• Act in the best interests of your clients and treat them with respect.
• Take responsibility for your actions.
• Respect other practitioners and health professionals.
• Practice only within the limits of your competence.
• Make sure your behaviour does not damage your profession’s reputation.
• Observe confidentiality. 
• Practice within the law.
• Maintain high standards of hygiene. 
• Maintain and develop your knowledge and skills.
• Ensure if you are working with the public that you have obtained the necessary insurance and agreed to your own countries laws regarding health care.
• Must not mislead your clients or make any false claims of your skills and abilities.

Failure to comply with any of the above can lead to immediate removal of your membership and you will not be eligible for a refund.