Code of Ethics for Radiologists

Radiologists provide a vital service to patients and other members of the medical profession. Their work helps physicians make decisions that lead to a correct diagnosis and treatment plan for patients. The Code of Ethics for Radiologists contains 10 principles that describe the manner in which a radiologist is to carry out his duties and the actions he is to take in regards to his profession, patients, other medical professionals and the public.

Tasks

• Task-orientated portions of the Code of Ethics for Radiologists include Principles 1, 4 and 7. Principle 1 states that radiologists should function "efficiently and effectively." Tasks are to be completed in a manner that "responds to patient needs" and supports other medical professional for the purpose of providing "quality medical care." Principle 4 deals with the knowledge, equipment, procedures and techniques radiologist should use to complete tasks. Principle 7 states radiologist should perform their duties and tasks with "competence and expertise" so that all entities are protected from unnecessary radiation exposure. This task-related principle includes using the right equipment to ensure the radiation is limited to specific areas of the patient's body.

Profession

• Principles 2, 8 and 10 describe radiologists' duties in regard to their profession. Principle 2 states they should act in a manner that achieves the objective of providing services "with humanity and full respect for the dignity of humankind." Radiologists are expected to represent the profession and its standards in professional organizations, to co-workers, to patients and to other health-care professionals. Principle 8 charges members of the profession with the duty to "maintain and upgrade professional standards." Principle 10 states radiologists should engage in ongoing education, share their knowledge with others and look for new ways to improve the profession.

Patients

• Principles 3, 5, 8 and 9 describe how radiologists should behave in regards to patients. Principle 3 says radiologists must provide the same level of high-quality service to every patient, regardless of race, sex, creed, religion, economic status or other factor. They are expected to treat patients regardless of their disease or illness. Principle 5 holds that radiologists should take personal responsibility for decisions, use discretion and judgment, and act in a manner that ensures the best outcome for the patient. They are expected to practice "ethical conduct" in a manner that benefits the patient, according to Principle 8. They are expected to uphold patients' rights to "quality radiologic care". At all times, radiologists must protect the "patient's right to privacy" and reveal only information that is required by law.

The Public

• Principle 8 holds radiologists should share information with the public about the "profession and its functions." In Principle 9, radiologists are bound to share information that protects the welfare of the community.

Medical Workers

• The Code of Ethics for Radiologists includes provisions for interacting with other members of the medical profession. According to Principle 6, they are to provide other professionals with the information needed to make a diagnosis and high-quality patient-care decisions. They are to share information gained from observation and treatment.