Establishing Standardized Processes for Professional Ethics and Disciplinary Programs

Abstract

A Description of the Professional Discipline program administered by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics

O&P organizations should have legally defensible disciplinary rules and procedures when determining the validity of claims of unethical conduct by their credential holders/members. The procedures must provide for due process and transparent communications between parties. Common mistakes include failure to follow an organization’s own rules and procedures, poor communication with certificants/members, failure to conduct comprehensive and timely investigations, failure to follow past precedent, breaches of confidentiality and a lack of oversight of the ethics committee. Establishing a clear, fair and legally defensible ethical disciplinary structure is critical to the integrity of the O&P profession. Patients and referral sources expect accountability and a predictable process when there is a question of unethical behavior. This course will discuss best practices and give examples of the US professional discipline program.

Statement of the objective / learning objectives

Participants will learn the importance to O&P governing entities of establishing a consistent, fair and defensible ethical disciplinary process. Due process and transparency are critical for the profession and these concepts will be described.