Code of Conduct
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center has an obligation to its patients, community, employees and payers to conduct its business and deliver its care in accordance with all applicable rules, regulations, and laws. We are committed to helping all our employees, staff physicians, and contractors act in a way that preserves the trust and respect of those whom we serve and with whom we deal.
This Code of Conduct is meant not as an inflexible rulebook, but as a guide to assist us in making decisions and choosing our actions. This code reflects the core values of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center:
- Integrity
- Respect Service
- Community
- Stewardship
- Compassion
- Excellence
These core values should guide our daily actions. When in doubt about what to do, ask for advice, but also think about these values. If the action you are considering is not compatible, don't do it.
The Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Code of Conduct must be followed by all our employees, professional staff, and contractors. No one, regardless of rank or position, may allow personal preference, inconvenience, or business pressures to compromise adherence to these standards, or pressure others to do so.
This code provides general information about how Beth Israel Deaconess will conduct its business. It does not replace the policies, procedures, or practices of the medical center. Furthermore, neither this code nor any written set of rules can replace open and honest discussion or the application of common sense, good judgment, and personal integrity. Adherence to the Code of Conduct is a condition of employment and credentialing. Violations of this code or any policies or procedures that govern our business and our interactions with our patients will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or staff privileges, as applicable.
Managers, supervisors, and service chiefs often are closest to the situation and can offer the best help to those who have questions about the Code of Conduct. However, if you are uncomfortable talking with them about certain issues, you may always contact the director of the Office of Business Conduct. Inquiries are handled confidentially, and you may remain anonymous if you wish. While the Office of Business Conduct may not be able to solve each issue, it will make every effort to identify the correct source of information, advise you of the procedure(s) to follow, investigate your concerns when needed, and assist you as appropriate.
Employees, staff, contractors, and others who do business with Beth Israel Deaconess have an obligation, as part of their employment, credentialing, or contract, to notify the medical center through their manager or supervisor, the CEO, or the Office of Business Conduct whenever they suspect behavior that violates the Code of Conduct or any rule, regulation, or law to which we are subject. The medical center is committed to protecting employees, staff, and others who, in good faith, report actions they believe are violations of the code or applicable laws. Retribution against such reporting also is forbidden by this code and should be reported to the Office of Business Conduct.
Managers, supervisors, and clinician leaders must be open to concerns about compliance. Although uncomfortable questions and concerns may arise, we must welcome the opportunity to address them honestly and swiftly. The Office of Business Conduct, as well as Human Resources, the Safety Office, and Healthcare Quality, all are prepared to assist in the investigation and resolution of any such issues.
