CPSA Code of Conduct

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• What is the CPSA Code of Conduct?

  A descriptive document that outlines the expectations of professional behaviour for physicians.

• Why was the Code of Conduct developed?

  To provide guidance to physicians about maintaining and promoting professional behaviour.

• Who drafted the Code of Conduct?

  A working group that included:

  • a lawyer
  • a rural-based physician
  • representatives from:
    • Alberta Health & Wellness (AHW)
    • Alberta Medical Association (AMA)
    • College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA)
    • Professional Association of Residents of Alberta (PARA)
    • Public members
    • University of Alberta
    • University of Calgary

• Who was consulted?

  • Alberta physicians
  • Representatives from provincial & national organizations including:
    • Alberta Health & Wellness (AHW)
    • Alberta Health Services (AHS)
    • Alberta Medical Association (AMA)
    • Alberta Government officials including ministers and MLA’s
    • Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA)
    • Medical Faculties of the University of Calgary and University of Alberta
    • Other professional associations and colleges

  Comments were also solicited through the CPSA website.

• Will the College still follow the CMA Code of Ethics?

  Yes. The Code of Conduct is meant to complement - not replace - the Canadian Medical Association’s Code of Ethics.

• Will the CMA's Code of Ethics take precedence if there is a complaint or concern?

  • The Code of Conduct and the Code of Ethics are not hierarchical documents, with one taking precedence over another:
    • the Code of Ethics is a principle based document
    • the Code of Conduct is a descriptive document.
  • There should be no contradiction between the two documents. However, reported inconsistencies or contradictions will be reviewed and considered.

• How does the CPSA Code of Conduct relate to the Alberta Health Services’ Code of Conduct?

  • The Alberta Health Services (AHS) Code of Conduct applies to all health care workers and makes reference to professional codes of conduct. The CPSA Code of Conduct applies to physicians only.