Sudbury, MA: Jones and Bartlett, 2006, p. 10. 8.1. The ethical obligations of the health information management (HIM) professional include the safeguarding of privacy and security of health information; appropriate disclosure of health information; development, use, and maintenance of health information systems and health information; and ensuring the accessibility and integrity of health information. 11–15. The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Code of Ethics sets forth these values and principles to guide conduct. Burlington, Massachusetts: Jones & Bartlett Learning; 2017. Copyright © 2018 by The American Health Information Management Association. Establishes a set of ethical principles to be used to guide decision-making and actions. Care should also be exercised in endorsing any other products and services. 35 Van den Hoven, J., and J. Weckert. The original Code of Ethics has been revised several times since 1957âin 1978, 1988, 1998, and 2004. 2 (2008): 165–76. The following principles are based on the core values of the American Health Information Management Association and apply to all AHIMA members, non-members CCHIIM certifications, and students. 32 Huffman, E. K. Manual for Medical Record Librarians. AHIMA Code of Ethics and Bylaws. A Code of Ethics sets forth professional values and ethical principles and offers ethical guidelines to which professionals aspire and by which their actions can be judged. The codes of ethics allowed professionals to examine the complexities of the world of work and to obtain guidance for ethical decision-making. The HIM association was launched by medical librarians (now called medical science librarians) who recognized the importance of the information maintained in medical records. It's a big job with legal consequences if any lapses in perform⦠Bylaws and Code of Ethics. Educate stakeholders about the need to maintain data integrity and the potential impacts should data integrity not be maintained. 11.3. A health information management professional shall not: 4.8. Moral Intelligence: Enhancing Business Performance and Leadership Success. 1.6. 13.3. Health Information Management: Concepts, Principles, and Practices. Forty-two guiding statements were associated with the principles. 1.4. 5.2. 1977. Patients must have the right to review and make corrections in their electronic record, and this right must be honored especially as states and organizations develop health information exchanges (HIEs). Crack (a derivative of cocaine) was available to the public. In the early days of the United States, Benjamin Franklin created the first patient information register at what is now Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia with the “…patient’s name, address, disorder, the dates of admission and discharge with the result on discharge….”1 The health information system of today is incredibly complex, and a code of ethics is an important resource for the decisions that must be made at work. Based on the AHIMA Code of Ethics, which of the following is not considered an ethical activity? The ethical decision is what should be done (the best action), given the competing interests, obligations, and values of others involved in making the decision. “Ethical Issues and the Electronic Health Record.” Health Care Manager 27, no. The AHIMA Code of Ethics is to be used by AHIMA members, non-members with the Commission on Certification for Health Informatics and Information Management (CCHIIM) certifications, students enrolled in a formal certificate or degree granting program directly relevant to AHIMA’s Purposes, and consumers, agencies, organizations, and bodies (such as licensing and regulatory boards, insurance providers, courts of law, government agencies, and other professional groups) that choose to adopt it or use it as a frame of reference. The code of ethics for a professional association incorporates values, principles, and professional standards. Permit one’s private conduct to interfere with the ability to fulfill one’s professional responsibilities. 7.4. Engage in social and political action that supports the protection of privacy and confidentiality and be aware of the impact of the political arena on the health information issues for the healthcare industry and the public. Harman, L. B., and V. L. Mullen. The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is the leading voice and authority in health information, wherever it is found.Our people work at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and business. Some highlights of this code of ethics include the following principles: The 1977 code of ethics highlighted service to the professional organization by placing this principle first in the code. American Health Information Management Association Standards of Ethical Coding [2016 version], Ethical Standards for Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI) Professionals (2016), HIM & Ethical Decision Making: Complex Challenges. A review of codes of ethics from 1957 to 2004 revealed the following values: providing service to others; protecting information; promoting confidentiality and teaching others of the importance of this principle; preserving and securing health information; promoting the quality and advancement of healthcare; reporting data with integrity and accuracy; promoting interdisciplinary cooperation and collaboration; demonstrating loyalty; complying with laws, regulations, and policies; recognizing the authority and responsibilities of the HIM professional; advocating for needed changes in the health information system; refusing to participate in or to conceal unethical or illegal activities; reporting violations of practice standards to the proper authorities; being honest about credentials, degrees, certifications, and work experiences; bringing honor to self, peers, and the profession; committing to continuing education and lifelong learning; discharging association duties honorably; strengthening professional membership; representing the role of the profession to the public; and promoting and participating in research.8 The code of ethics of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) that was passed in 2011 includes these same values.9. 1.5. 2.5. Avoid lending the prestige of the association to advance or appear to advance the private interests of others by endorsing any product or service in return for remuneration. People have been creating medical records since antiquity, as evidenced by the drawings of medical conditions and surgeries in the cave wall paintings created by early humans. For example, for Principle II (“Put service and the health and welfare of persons before self-interest and conduct themselves in the practice of the profession so as to bring honor to themselves, their peers, and to the health information management profession”), the code included that HIM professionals shall “act with integrity, behave in a trustworthy manner, elevate service to others above self-interest, and promote high standards of practice in every setting” and shall not “take unfair advantage of any professional relationship or exploit others to further their personal, religious, political, or business interests.”30 The preamble, values, and statements related to ethical behaviors attested to the power of the individual to make a difference. These activities may include teaching, research, consultation, service, legislative testimony, advocacy, presentations in the community, and participation in professional organizations. 7.5. In 1913, the American College of Surgeons (ACOS) was founded, and in 1928 the ACOS needed a mechanism to review the surgical work of their fellowship candidates, based on the submission of medical records. The HIM professional has an obligation to demonstrate actions that reflect values. It strengthened guidelines to support operations within the professional association and continuing education efforts. A profession develops in the context of the world, not in an isolated silo. I choose one of the guidelines about how a health information management professional should be more unselfish, respective, honorable, and ⦠13 American Medical Record Association. 1988. Promote the value of self-determination for each individual. Inform recipients of the limitations and risks associated with providing services via electronic or social media (e.g., computer, telephone, fax, radio, and television). Grace Whiting Myers and the other visionary leaders who launched the HIM professional association recognized a core ethical principle of the profession—to protect patient information—and the need to demonstrate “behavior that reflects integrity, supports objectivity, and fosters trust in professional activities.”32 In writing the first pledge, they recognized the importance of competency, integrity, truthfulness, trust, compassion, dedication to others, and courage in carrying out the responsibilities of a HIM professional. The American Health Information Management Association, AHIMA code of ethics is formulated for controlling the ethical behaviors of members and non-members who are obliged to undertake health information management. Respond promptly and appropriately to consumer requests to exercise their privacy rights (e.g., access, amendments, restriction, confidential communication, etc.). The 2011 code of ethics followed the format of the 2004 code and incorporated language to reflect changes in technology, the healthcare system, and association management, and it “provides enhanced steps for reporting individual, unprofessional actions.”31 The full code of ethics is available at www.ahima.org/about/ethicscode.aspx. This time period ushered in the beginning of insurance, marked by the beginning of private (prepaid hospital) insurance by Blue Cross. 11.4. National Association of Social Workers. Summarizes broad ethical principles that reflect the profession's core values. AHIMA Code of Ethics and AHDI The AHIMA Code of Ethics states that health information professionals have an obligation to safeguard health information and prevent misuse. 21 Twitty, M. E. “Ethics for Medical Records Library Personnel.” Journal of the American Association of Medical Record Librarians 27, no. 11 Huffman, E. K. Manual for Medical Record Librarians. All Rights Reserved. Prevent inappropriate disclosure of individually identifiable information. In the world of business and interactions with consumers, expertise in the protection of information is required. 9.6. Make clear distinctions between statements made and actions engaged in as a private individual and as a representative of the health information management profession, a professional health information association, or one’s employer. “Ethics Update: Revisions Strengthen AHIMA’s Code of Ethics.” Journal of AHIMA 83, no. All Rights Reserved. AHIMA Code of Ethics relation to HIM professionals AHIMA Code of Ethics relation to HIM professionals and the effect on work environment. students, staff, peers, or colleagues) where there is a risk of exploitation or potential harm to that other person. These include policies and procedures created by AHIMA, licensing and regulatory bodies, employers, supervisors, agencies, and other professional organizations. Claim and ensure that representation to consumers, agencies, and the public of professional qualifications, credentials, education, competence, affiliations, services provided, training, certification, consultation received, supervised experience, and other relevant professional experience are accurate. The codes of ethics are examined in terms of professional values and changes in the language used to express the principles of the various codes. Ethical obligations are central to the professional's responsibility, regardless of the employment site or the method of collection, storage, and security of health information. Table 1 See Table 2for some of the changes in the healthcare system at the time that the various codes of ethics were passed. 2.2. This concept is true for the entire code. The responsibility to protect privacy was clearly defined in the 1934 Pledge of the American Association of Medical Record Librarians. A Code of Ethics is important in helping to guide the decision- Design or conduct evaluation or research that is in conformance with applicable federal or state laws. Ethical actions at work always require courage.”36 The founders of the association recognized the importance of balancing the protection of privacy and the need to access health information. Perform responsibly all duties as assigned by the professional association operating within the bylaws and policies and procedures of the association and any pertinent laws. 9.7. The 1934 pledge and the six codes of ethics for the HIM professional association have provided guidance for ethical leadership across a continuum of time, roles, and responsibilities. The code used language referring to quality several times in the guiding principles. Professional values for HIM include the importance of education and technical competency, patient safety, data validity and accuracy, truthfulness, compassion, and dedication to providing quality services in professional roles. Release information only with valid authorization from a consumer or a person legally authorized to consent on behalf of a consumer or as authorized by federal or state regulations. Ensure all voices are listened to and respected. Code of Ethics and Bylaws. 3.2. If you do not accept and abide by this policy, do not use any of the services provided on the website. Key words: values, ethics, code of ethics, health information management, health information management professional, health information management professional association, ethical decision-making, healthcare system. Cooperate with lawful authorities as appropriate. The dilemmas faced today require interdisciplinary ethical collaboration with clinicians, administrators, ethicists, lawyers, policy makers, accreditation agencies, patients, and patients’ advocates. The Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Act of 1973 was a federal law passed to encourage employers to develop and seek HMO initiatives. The terms "shall” and “shall not" are used as a basis for setting high standards for behavior. Purpose of the American Health Information Management Association Code of Ethics. A profession develops in the context of the world, not in an isolated silo. (Editor). 2nd ed. 10.4. A health information management professional shall not: 2.6. Be an advocate for the profession in all settings and participate in activities that promote and explain the mission, values, and principles of the profession to the public. A professional HIM code of ethics is shaped by the context of the times, changes in the healthcare system, and the issues faced by the profession and the public at large. Information Technology and Moral Philosophy. Serve an active role in developing HIM faculty or actively recruiting HIM professionals. The code of ethics dealt with association responsibilities (the larger community within which HIM professionals functioned) and moved beyond the focus on the patient to others in the world of work and the professional communities. The AHIMA was founded in 1928, and has since then provided for CCA, CCS, RHIA, and RHIT credentials. An introduction that described the role of the HIM practitioner and the professional association was added. HIM professionals can use the code of ethics to provide guidance for ethical decision-making. 12.3. AHIMA issues standards of ethical coding . 33 Layman, E. J. 2004. Consult with a colleague when feasible and assist the colleague in taking remedial action when there is direct knowledge of a health information management colleague's incompetence or impairment. The Code of Ethics created by the âAmerican Health Information Management Associationâ carries out or implements the aforementioned values and ethical principles to direct or motivate the proper behavior (American.., 2004). 9.5. AHIMA Code of Ethics This presentation will look at the AHIMA Code of Ethics and Bylaws. The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) is a professional association for health professionals involved in the health information management needed to deliver quality health care to the public. Check back for further updates. 17 American Health Information Management Association. Take reasonable steps to provide or arrange for continuing education and staff development, addressing current knowledge and emerging developments related to health information management practice and ethics. The conflicting roles or responsibilities must be clarified and appropriate action taken to minimize any conflict of interest. 7 Beauchamp, T., and J. Childress. 2004. Berwyn, IL: Physician’s Record Company, 1981, p. 22. Beginning in 1994, a series of Physicians at Teaching Hospitals (PATH) Audits were conducted by the federal government to investigate improper billing by teaching hospitals and physicians. The use of this word signified the tremendous tensions experienced by the HIM professional when performing work responsibilities, such as the tension between quality documentation, accurate coding/billing, and quality care. 4.6. 1957. The association changed its name several times over the years: the Association of Record Librarians of North America (ARLNA) 1928; American Associ⦠Take precautions to ensure and maintain the confidentiality of information transmitted, transferred, or disposed of in the event of termination, incapacitation, or death of a healthcare provider to other parties through the use of any media. The AHIMA Code of Ethics reflects the commitment of all to uphold the profession's values and to act ethically. The following ethical principles are based on the core values of the American Health Information Management Association and apply to all AHIMA members, non-members with CCHIIM certifications, and students enrolled in a formal certificate or degree granting program directly relevant to AHIMA’s Purposes. 2. 1 (2000). The responsibility to protect privacy was clearly defined in the 1934 pledge. The AHIMA Code of Ethics serves six purposes: The code includes principles that are enforceable and aspirational. Resign from an association position if unable to perform the assigned responsibilities with competence. This does not imply that everyone "shall” or “shall not" do everything that is listed. A code of ethics cannot guarantee ethical behavior. Disclose any real or perceived conflicts of interest. Harman L., Cornelius F. Ethical Health Informatics: Challenges and Opportunities (formerly titled Ethical Challenges in the Management of Health Information). Claim only those relevant professional credentials actually possessed and correct any inaccuracies occurring regarding credentials. A code of ethics can provide immediate guidance on what should be done. 9 American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). 29 American Health Information Management Association. (See also AHIMA Mission, Vision, Values) The code is relevant to all AHIMA members, non-members with the Commission on Certification for Health Informatics and Information Management (CCHIIM) certifications, and students enrolled in a formal certificate or degree granting program directly relevant to AHIMA’s Purpose regardless of their professional functions, the settings in which they work, or the populations they serve. Since its adoption at the founding meeting of the American Medical Association in 1847, the AMA Code of Medical Ethics has articulated the values to which physicians commit themselves as members of the medical profession.. Specific applications of the code must consider the context in which it is being considered and the possibility of conflicts among the values and principles. AHIMA Code of Ethics American Health Information Management Association Standards of Ethical Coding [2016 version] Ethical Standards for Clinical Documentation Improvement (CDI) Professionals (2016) Developing a Coding Compliance Policy Document (2010 update) In the Winds of Change, Principles Provide a Steady Course Value all kinds and classes of people equitably, deal effectively with all races, cultures, disabilities, ages and genders. Ethics Update: Revisions Strengthen AHIMA's Code of Ethics. The first test-tube baby was born in England. Take responsibility and credit, including authorship credit, only for work one actually performs, or to which one contributed. By entering and using the website, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the terms and conditions and that you agree to abide by them. Indexing in process. The implementation of diagnosis related groups (DRGs) in 1983 changed the nature and importance of the medical record professional's role in a highly regulated government environment. This pledge was written and read by Grace Whiting Myers at the first annual professional association meeting in Boston as follows: The pledge was expanded in 1935 as follows: “Principle #1: Place service before material gain, the honor of the profession before personal advantage, the health and welfare of patients above all personal and financial interests, and conduct himself in the practice of this profession so as to bring honor to himself, his associates, and to the medical record profession.”, “Principle #3: Serve his employer loyally, honorably discharging the duties and responsibilities entrusted to him…”. 1988. A health information management professional shall: 5.1. Establishes a set of ethical principles to be used to guide decision-making and actions. An HIM professional is tasked with producing accurate, timely, and responsible reviews of patient health records, protecting that health record, and operating with integrity in all areas of the role assigned. 4th ed. Safeguard all confidential consumer information to include, but not limited to, personal, health, financial, genetic, and outcome information. Be responsible for setting clear, appropriate, and culturally sensitive boundaries for students, staff, peers, colleagues, and members within professional organizations. 2nd ed. Bylaws Amended, October 1994; Code of Ethics Amended, 1991  Unknown author ( American Health Information Management Association , 1996-01 ) A. Coding Audits B. The 1980s offered a time of regulation and deregulation as the federal government increased regulation on health reimbursement. 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