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The mission of the BC Society of Homeopaths is to support homeopathic
practitioners in attaining and maintaining high professional standards, and to promote the development of homeopathy as a distinct profession. Guiding Principles of Ethical Conduct
for all Homeopathic Practitioners:
Consider always the well-being of the patient. Observe the highest standards of conduct in the care of the patient. Uphold the confidentiality of the practitioner/patient relationship. Be accountable to ourselves, our patients, our peers, and to our professional association in our practice of homeopathy. Value our teachers, and share our knowledge. Recognize our limitations and the special skills of others in the prevention and treatment of disease. Be responsible in setting a value on services.
The principles outlined in this document are intended as a framework for the conduct of ethical professional Homeopathic practice in the province of British
Columbia. Responsibilities to the Patient
The ethical practitioner will:
Practice the art and science of homeopathy to the best of his/her ability. Recognize his/her professional limitations and, when indicated, recommend to the patient that additional opinions and services be obtained. Undertake continuing personal and professional development to enhance his/her standards of practice. Respect for Patient: Treat patients with respect, dignity and freedom from prejudice toward race, colour, gender, ethnic origin and sexual orientation. Maintain loyalty to the patient, holding regard for his/her wishes. Patient's Rights: Acknowledge that a patient has the right to accept or reject any practitioner and any recommendations made. Confidentiality: Keep in confidence information derived from a patient or from colleagues regarding a patient, except:
a) when required by law
b) when the
patient has consented to disclosure for purposes of education, research, and consultation with other homeopaths/health professionals. Sexual Conduct: Not engage in sexual activity with a patient under his/her care, nor with a student under his/her tutelage or supervision. Only after the formal or
therapeutic relationship has been concluded, with full agreement and understanding, on both sides, may any other kind of relationship be contemplated. Clear boundaries need to be observed by both parties to a therapeutic or educational
relationship. Homeopathic Proving: Not administer any substance for the purpose of carrying out a homeopathic proving unless the person to whom it is to be administered is a
consenting participant and understands the nature of the proving process. Disclosure of Therapies: Make clear to the patient the exact nature of any adjunct therapies recommended, clearly differentiating them from homeopathic treatment.
Responsibilities to the Profession
The ethical practitioner will:
Conduct his/her homeopathic activities (practice, research, publications, teaching) with honour and integrity, so as to merit the respect of colleagues and the public. Report research findings and clinical experience methodically, honestly and without distortion. In writing and speaking, will acknowledge and clearly reference the ideas and materials of others. Not disparage nor speak disrespectfully of any fellow practitioner. When he/she has good reason to believe that a fellow homeopath has acted irresponsibly or has any complaint whatsoever about him/her, should first attempt to discuss said issue
with the homeopath concerned, observing full confidentiality. Support and assist each other in study and practice.
Responsibilities to Society
The ethical practitioner will:
Strive to improve the standards and availability of homeopathic care in the community. Promote public education in homeopathy and the nature of professional homeopathic practice.
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