Ethics & Professional Standards
The association is committed to maintaining the highest ethical and professional standards in audiology and speech-language pathology practice. Members are expected to uphold principles of integrity, competence, confidentiality, cultural sensitivity, and evidence-based care in all professional activities.
Code of Ethics
Professional Competence
Members are expected to maintain a high standard of professional knowledge, clinical skill, and ethical judgment in all areas of practice. This includes engaging in continuous professional development, staying informed about current research and evidence-based practices, and providing services within the limits of one’s training, expertise, and certification. Professionals should strive for excellence in assessment, diagnosis, intervention, counseling, rehabilitation, and patient care at all times.
Ethical Clinical Conduct
Professionals are expected to practice with honesty, integrity, fairness, and professionalism in all clinical and professional interactions. Members must avoid any form of misrepresentation, exploitation, discrimination, or misconduct that may harm patients, colleagues, students, or the profession. Ethical clinical conduct also includes obtaining informed consent, maintaining professional boundaries, and ensuring that services provided are safe, appropriate, and evidence-based.
Patient-Centered Care
The wellbeing, dignity, and individual needs of patients and clients must remain at the center of all professional services. Members are expected to provide compassionate, respectful, and evidence-based care while involving patients and their families in decision-making processes. Services should be tailored to the cultural, emotional, linguistic, developmental, and medical needs of each individual to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Professional Accountability
Members are responsible for the quality, accuracy, and outcomes of the services they provide. This includes adhering to professional standards, complying with regulatory requirements, accepting responsibility for professional decisions, and responding appropriately to feedback or concerns. Professionals should demonstrate transparency, reliability, and commitment to maintaining public trust in the professions of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology.
Confidentiality
Members must protect the privacy and confidentiality of all patient, client, student, and organizational information obtained through professional practice. Personal and clinical information should only be shared with authorized individuals and in accordance with legal, ethical, and professional guidelines. Confidentiality must be maintained in clinical documentation, research activities, educational settings, and digital communication platforms.
Respect for Diversity and Inclusion
The association promotes equitable and inclusive professional practice that respects individuals from diverse cultural, linguistic, social, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Members are expected to provide services without discrimination and to create environments where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported. Professionals should recognize and respond appropriately to the unique communication and healthcare needs of diverse populations.