Purpose of the Code of Ethics
The AHIMA Code of Ethics establishes the ethical obligations and professional values that guide health information management practitioners in their work. As stewards of sensitive patient information, HIM professionals hold a unique position of trust that requires a clear ethical framework for decision-making.
Core Ethical Principles
The code addresses principles including advocating for the protection of privacy and confidentiality of health information, maintaining high standards of professional integrity, refusing to participate in fraudulent activities or misrepresent information, promoting equitable access to health information services, and pursuing lifelong learning to maintain professional competence.
Professional Values
Underlying professional values reflected in the code include honesty, accountability, respect for individual autonomy and dignity, and commitment to advancing the profession through mentorship and knowledge sharing. These values apply across all HIM roles, from coding and privacy to informatics and management.
Ethical Obligations
Specific ethical obligations addressed in the code include preserving the confidentiality and security of health information, refusing to alter documentation inappropriately to secure favorable reimbursement or quality outcomes, disclosing conflicts of interest, and reporting illegal or unethical practices observed in the course of professional duties.
Enforcement
AHIMA maintains a process for reviewing alleged violations of the Code of Ethics, which can result in sanctions up to revocation of credentials for members found to have engaged in serious ethical violations. This enforcement mechanism reinforces accountability across the credentialed HIM workforce.
Ethical Decision-Making Models
When facing ethical dilemmas, HIM professionals can apply structured decision-making models that involve identifying the ethical issue, gathering relevant facts, considering the interests of all stakeholders, evaluating alternative courses of action against ethical principles, and selecting and implementing the most defensible course of action. Applying such models consistently helps professionals navigate difficult situations, such as conflicting requests for information access or pressure to alter documentation, in a manner consistent with professional ethical standards.