ACDIS Code of Ethics

 

The ACDIS Code of Ethics is based on core values and broad ethical principles that professionals can aspire to and use when making a decision or choosing a course of
action. It helps CDI professionals identify relevant considerations when professional obligations conflict with ethical standards or when ethical uncertainties arise. It also serves to orient new CDI practitioners to CDI’s mission, values, and ethical principles. This document articulates a set of guidelines that CDI professionals can use to assess whether they have engaged in unethical conduct.

The ACDIS Code of Ethics serves as a guide for the professional behavior of its members
and nonmembers who hold the CCDS and/or the CCDS-O credential. This code of ethical standards strives to promote and maintain the highest level of professional service and
conduct among ACDIS members. Adherence to these standards ensures public confidence in the integrity and service of the association.

The ACDIS Code of Ethics is intended to assist in decision-making processes and actions, outline expectations for making ethical decisions in the workplace, and demonstrate CDI professionals’ commitment to integrity. The standards set forth are relevant to all CDI professionals and those who manage the CDI function, regardless of the healthcare setting in which they work, or whether they are ACDIS members or nonmembers.

Ethical obligations are central to CDI professionals’ responsibilities, regardless of the employment site or the method of collection, storage, and security of health information. Sensitive information (genetic, adoption, drug, alcohol, sexual, and behavioral information) requires special attention to prevent misuse.

 

Application of the Code of Ethics

The ACDIS Code of Ethics outlines aspirational principles and guidelines. It is meant to reflect the commitment of all individuals, agencies, organizations, and bodies allied with the association to uphold the profession’s values.

The Code of Ethics does not provide a set of rules prescribing how to act in all situations. Any application of the code must consider the context of the situation and the possibility of conflicts among the code’s values, principles, and guidelines. Ethical responsibilities flow from all human relationships, from the personal and familial to the social and professional. Further, the ACDIS Code of Ethics does not specify which values, principles, and guidelines are the most important and ought to outweigh others in instances of conflict.

How Do I Address Ethical Concerns?

To address ethical concerns, reference industry information and/or resources from reliable organizations related to your practice and the associated concern. This may include ACDIS, the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA), the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), the American Nurses Association (ANA), the American Medical Association (AMA), etc. Also review organizational policies and practices, and follow your organization’s established processes for escalating compliance concerns.

Generally, you should first approach your departmental leadership with your concern and ask for clarification regarding potential actions. If you feel uncomfortable calling attention to the issue at this level, you can submit a summary of your concern to the corporate compliance officer. Often this can be done anonymously.