Code of Ethics for Recognized Organizations
1. Person-Centered Service
Recognized organizations shall place the well-being, dignity, self-determination, and informed choice of the individuals they serve above organizational interests.
2. Mission Before Profit
Recognized organizations shall demonstrate that their primary purpose is to improve the lives of those they serve. Financial sustainability is essential to fulfilling that mission; however, organizational decisions shall never prioritize personal financial gain or organizational profit over ethical, person-centered care.
3. Integrity and Accountability
Recognized organizations shall conduct all operations honestly, ethically, and in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, contractual obligations, licensing and certification requirements, and applicable oversight or accrediting standards. Organizations shall accept responsibility for their actions and promptly address ethical concerns when they arise.
4. Transparency and Stewardship
Recognized organizations shall communicate honestly with those they serve, employees, funders, community partners, and the public. They shall responsibly steward the resources entrusted to them and avoid conflicts of interest or practices that undermine public trust.
5. Professional Conduct
Recognized organizations shall conduct themselves with professionalism, integrity, honesty, and respect in all interactions. They shall protect confidential information, maintain appropriate professional boundaries, and foster ethical leadership throughout the organization.
6. Collaboration
Recognized organizations acknowledge that no single organization can meet every community need. They commit to working collaboratively with ethical community partners, supporting informed choice, coordinating services when appropriate, and strengthening the continuum of care.
Organizations shall conduct themselves in a manner that promotes cooperation, mutual respect, and responsible stewardship of community resources, recognizing that the greatest outcomes are achieved when organizations work together in the best interests of those they serve.
7. Commitment to Public Trust
Recognized organizations acknowledge that their actions reflect upon the recovery, behavioral health, and human services community as a whole. They commit to continuous improvement, ethical leadership, and preserving public confidence through responsible, transparent, and mission-driven service.
EPIC 