WSMA Principles of Medical Ethics
WASHINGTON STATE MEDICAL ASSOCIATION PRINCIPLES OF MEDICAL ETHICS
As adopted by the 1984 WSMA House of Delegates from the 1980 AMA Principles of Medical Ethics
PREAMBLE: The medical profession has long subscribed to a body of
ethical statements developed primarily for the benefit of the patient.
As a member of this profession, a physician must recognize
responsibility not only to patients, but also to society, to other
health professionals, and to self. The following Principles adopted by
the American Medical Association are not laws, but standards of conduct
which define the essentials of honorable behavior for the physician.
I. A physician shall be dedicated to providing competent medical service with compassion and respect for human dignity.
II. A physician shall deal honestly with patients and colleagues,
and strive to expose those physicians deficient in character or
competence, or who engage in fraud or deception.
III. A physician shall respect the law and also recognize a
responsibility to seek changes in those requirements which are contrary
to the best interests of the patient.
IV. A physician shall respect the rights of patients, of colleagues,
and of other health professionals, and shall safeguard patient
confidences within the constraints of the law.
V. A physician shall continue to study, apply and advance scientific
knowledge, make relevant information available to patients, colleagues,
and the public, obtain consultation, and use the talents of other
health professionals when indicated.
VI. A physician shall, in the provision of appropriate patient care,
except in emergencies, be free to choose whom to serve, with whom to
associate, and the environment in which to provide medical services.
VII. A physician shall recognize a responsibility to participate in activities contributing to an improved community.
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