 |
SCMESA Code of Ethics
To render the highest level of care promptly and
competently, taking into account the health and safety of the patient. To serve all patients regardless of race,
creed, national origin or reason of illness.
To provide quality home medical equipment and service which are appropriate
for the patient’s needs. To instruct the
patient and/or caregiver in the proper use of the equipment. To involve the
patient so that he/she may make informed decisions about his/her care and about
the equipment he/she uses. To respect
the confidential nature of the patient’s records and not to disclose any
information without prior authorization, except as required by law. To fully explain and accurately to patients
and/or caregiver the patient’s rights and responsibilities with regard to the
rental, sale or service of home medical equipment. To inform the patient/caregiver of the
charges, expected insurance coverage, and payment policies as they relate to
the equipment and services provided. To
continue to expand and improve professional knowledge and skills so as to
provide patients with equipment and services which are continually
updated. To abide by both federal and
local laws and regulations which govern the home medical equipment industry. To avoid participating, directly or
indirectly, with a source of patient referrals in a “captive referral
arrangement” whereby patients are directed to utilized a supplier of home
medical equipment in derogation of the patient’s right to select the supplier
of his/her choice. To use fair and honest competitive practices and not make
derogatory comments about one’s competitor (without true reason) because such
comments reflect negatively on the entire industry. To act in good faith; to be honest, truthful
and fair to all concerned. The
membership finds unacceptable the offering of any inducement to obtain
business, such as free goods, items not medically necessary, or payment of
referral fees to therapists, social workers, and doctors (including waiver of
co-insurance and deductibles).
|
