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Code of Ethics, 2011

Code of Ethics

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Overview

Why a Code of Ethics?
Fundamental Values of Occupational Therapists
Core Values

Why a Code of Ethics?

A Code of Ethics outlines a set of values and principles.
This Code of Ethics provides registrants with information about the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario’s (the College’s) expectations for ethical practice.

The Code of Ethics is intended for use in all contexts and domains of occupational therapy practice, and in all levels of decision making. It outlines the values occupational therapists (OTs) promote as members of a self-regulating profession and it can be used to help clients, colleagues and members of the public understand our ethical commitments. As a critical component of the College’s Complaints, Discipline and Quality Assurance Programs, the Code of Ethics provides information that is crucial to all registrants.

Ethical practice defines what is good – which means, what is right.
The College expects all practitioners to commit to good practice. This commitment requires
OTs to consciously consider what is right in furthering the interests of our clients and what is right in protecting the public interest.

The Code of Ethics—Commitment to Good Practice forms the foundation for OTs’ ethical obligations. It is the framework for the professional and personal conduct expectations outlined in the laws, regulations, College standards and guidelines that govern the practice of occupational therapy. The Code of Ethics articulates the fundamental reference points that guide ethical practice and to which the profession aspires.

Fundamental Values of Occupational Therapists

Values are the ethical building blocks of human behaviour and interaction. They are at the heart of all our everyday exchanges, and shape how we relate to and perceive others.

OTs are in a position of duty and authority. They have a duty to the individuals who rely on their knowledge, skill and judgement. OTs are in a position of authority because they have access to personal and sensitive information, and provide services to people who are vulnerable. Consequently, they have a professional responsibility to uphold the College’s fundamental values.

While practice can take many forms and take place in a variety of contexts, OTs must always aim for the same common goal – to enable clients to engage in meaningful ways with their world.

Core Values

OTs are guided by two fundamental values: RESPECT and TRUST. These core values are as important as the laws, regulations, and College standards and guidelines under which OTs are governed.

Our values relate to the obligations OTs have as self-regulated professionals in whom the public places its respect and trust. The values of respect and trust give rise to the principles of practice that underpin occupational therapy practice.

Respect
An OT promotes respect by applying the principles of:

Client-centred practice

Determine what has meaning and purpose for the client;
Recognize that clients are diverse and that each client is an individual;

Respect for autonomy

Recognize each client’s right to make choices for him or herself;
Honour the dignity and worth of each individual;

Collaboration and communication

Practise as a team member with clients and other professionals.

Trust
An OT promotes trust by applying the principles of:

Honesty

Truthfulness is a cornerstone of trust;

Fairness

Practise justice and equity in dealings with others;

Accountability

Take responsibility for decisions, actions, professional competence and judgement;

Transparency

Full disclosure ensures integrity in relationships with clients, other professionals and society at large.

The above lists of principles are neither definitive nor exhaustive. Additional principles may be needed in specific situations such as a pandemic or other emergency.