STAFF AND STUDENTS CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS GUIDELINES

Abstract

Preface Dear staff and students, It gives me great pleasure while introducing the Staff and Students Code of Conduct and ethics, which is the first of its kind for our College, and virtually original in its outline and content. For the betterment of the health service, we are providing, and for the quality education we are delivering, all SPHMMC staff and students must comply with the guidelines set in this Code of Conduct and ethics. I would like to bring to your utmost attention that adhering to the ethical principles of the Code of conduct and ethics is a mandatory requirement for every member of the College community as a health service provider, educator, learner, and administrator. The Code of Conduct and ethics is equally applicable to health staff and students. Department heads and directorates have professional, moral, and legal obligations to enforce the application of this Code of Conduct in their jurisdiction. Any staff or student who is unable to follow the set guidelines must report to the immediate supervisor or the department head and work together to find an acceptable solution. Failure to comply with the guidelines hereunder may constitute a breach of the Code of Conduct and liable to disciplinary measures. Department heads and unit leaders are responsible for ensuring that all staff and students are aware of and routinely practicing this Code of Conduct and ethics. The College Human Resource Directorate and Student Dean Directorate are responsible to ensure that uniforms provided for staff and students comply with this Code of Conduct and ethics, respectively. Above all, practicing and adhering to this Code of Conduct and ethics in its entirety makes all of us mature professionals in both content and action. The growing complexity of health care in terms of increasing public questioning the quality of service and litigation is also a big click to all of us to be time adaptable to the professional code of conduct and ethics. Therefore, every staff and student must read the guidelines and should have a good understanding about the importance of having ethical behavior and professional conduct for both personal and institutional growth and development. Every member of the College community should utilize the Code of Conduct and ethics as a guide for routine activities. This is the tool we are going to put into action: 1) to treat and interact with our workmates, students, and clients/patients fairly and equitably, 2) to discharge ethical and legal obligations, and 3) to resolve complaints and breaches of the professional Code of conduct and ethics. While in service or academic sessions, it is a must to be accountable to the immediate supervisor/department head/director and governed by this Code, Senate legislation, and all applicable country’s laws. Please, be reminded that this Code of Conduct and ethics does not supersede rather complements the College’s Senate Legislation and country’s laws. I invite the College community to go through it line by line and start implementing the sooner possible. The College management is committed to providing you the necessary support in the process of implementation of this Code. Dr Wendmagegn Gezehagn Provost, SPHMMC