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CHC Code of Professional Ethics The
Council for Homeopathic Certification (CHC) considers the following principles
to be guides to the ethical practice of homeopathy, and to be morally binding on
all homeopaths: Ideals The homeopath’s high and only calling is to restore the
sick to health—to heal, as it is termed—as defined by Samuel Hahnemann in
the Organon. Interactions with
Patients/Clients Conduct the homeopathic practice with vigilance,
integrity, and freedom from prejudice, and treat all patients with respect and
dignity. Make every appropriate
effort to be available and accessible to ill patients requiring assistance.
Never guarantee a cure, by spoken word or in writing. Assist patients in weighing the possible benefits and
risks of other (non-homeopathic) types of treatment, helping them to consider
conventional diagnostic procedures, routine screening tests, and
therapies—acknowledging the usefulness of such procedures at appropriate
times, even for those who may wish to avoid conventional treatment. Render assistance to patients in emergency situations, to
the greatest extent permitted by training and circumstances. Practice within areas of competence. Consult with
colleagues, or refer clients to other practitioners, in any situation involving
conflict, inadequate training, or personal limitation—such as, but not limited
to, any of the following: • When any aspect of the patient’s case requires
greater experience, training, or skill than the practitioner can offer. • When there is a need for diagnostic tests or
procedures beyond the capacity of the homeopath • When the homeopath’s care is not providing
reasonable and timely resolution of the patient’s health problems. • When circumstances arise which create a conflict
between the homeopath’s personal and professional relationship with the
patient • If a homeopath’s competence or judgment is impaired
by physical or mental incapacity, or chemical dependency Keep full and accurate records of all contacts with
patients, including individual data such as name, address, phone number, date of
birth, and case data such as medical history, dates and details of
consultations, and summary of recommendations made. Interactions within
the Profession Honor the homeopathic profession, its history and
traditions. Each practitioner’s words and actions reflect upon the profession
as a whole. Speak respectfully about fellow practitioners, both homeopathic and
in other fields—acknowledging differences in styles of practice and training
in a constructive way—whether in public or with patients. Continue personal and professional development by
undertaking further study, conferring with colleagues, and seeking greater
understanding of homeopathic theory and practice, supporting other homeopaths in
that goal. Promote the art and science of homeopathy through appropriate
research. If conducting homeopathic research, give substances used
in provings only to those individuals who have an understanding of the nature of
the proving process, and who have volunteered, with written consent, to
participate. Consider any person involved in experimental provings or other
studies to be the researcher’s patient; be guided by the welfare of each
person, and the moral imperative that the homeopath’s only calling is to help
make sick people well. Report research findings and clinical experience
methodically, honestly, and without distortion. Identify any speculative
theories clearly as such. Carefully honor the confidentiality of all patients
whose cases are used in published articles, case conference presentations, or
training lectures. ________________________________________________________________________________
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