Physician's Code of Ethics

Physicians sometimes decorate their offices with a reminder of their code of ethics, such as a version of the Hippocratic Oath or the phrase "First, do no harm." Other popular codes of ethics for physicians are the American Medical Association (AMA) Code of Medical Ethics and the World Medical Association International Code of Medical Ethics.

Modern Hippocratic Oath

• The modern Hippocratic Oath is a pledge that consists of several ideals a physician must uphold. A physician must respect scientific knowledge and pass it on, benefit the sick, practice the human dimension of medical care, admit failure, respect privacy, be humble, prevent disease, and respect social obligations.

American Medical Association Code of Ethics

• The AMA Code of Medical Ethics highlights nine principles that outline a commitment to both patient care and social responsibility. Physicians must respect human decency and rights, be honest in their dealings, respect the law, respect the privacy and rights of patients, continue medical study, be free to choose patients, improve public health, and support access to medical care.

World Medical Association Medical Ethics

• The WMA Medical Ethics Manual states that physicians should commit medical oaths such as the Declaration of Geneva, which pledges physicians to defend basic human rights and protect individuals against medical mistreatment.