To: New members of the Speech-Language Pathologist Team From: Jensen Nguyen Subject: ASHA Code of Ethics – Discussion on Boundary Crossings and Violations Date: February 1st, 2018 The purpose of this memo is to present my reflection on the extent to which caring might breach the professional boundary between the patient and the practitioner, thus causing potential harm to all parties and violating the integrity of the profession. We want to welcome all new members and remind you to familiarize yourself with the ASHA Code of Ethics, 2016. I encourage you to seek assistance and counsel from your supervisors if needed. Summary: One of the ethical principles a healthcare provider must consider in his/her decision-making is care. A Speech-language pathologist should hold the responsibility to ensure the welfare of a patient and to secure the prestige of our profession by committing to the codes of ethics which is established by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. The ASHA Code of Ethics, 2016. “Individuals …show more content…
The indicators of boundary violations include over-involvement and lack of self-awareness. For instance, when a professional offers unnecessary appointment outside regular business hour, exhibits favoritism, and inappropriate self-disclosure. The ethical mandate may also be breached when the therapist is reluctant to discharge a person when it is appropriate to do so, believing he/she is the only one who can help the patient. The conducts described above reflect a serious conflict of interests that potentially interferes with the practitioner’s impartial assessment and conceptualization. A speech-language treatment should be goal-oriented and designed properly to meet a patient’s need. Thus, it is important that the speech-language pathologist establishes and maintains a professional boundary with his/her