Personal Code Of Ethics Essay

A code of ethics is a guideline to which one is held accountable with respect to their decisions and actions. A personal code of ethics represents the values that are most important to a person, and guides the way they act in all aspects of life. Many professional bodies, including the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA), have their own code of ethics to which they hold their members accountable. Often times, an individual is drawn to a profession in which their code of ethics aligns with that of the association. Personally, there are several similarities between my code of ethics and that of the CPA, specifically the emphasis on respect and life long learning. Personal and professional codes are dealing with different overall goals and

Part of the attraction of Physiotherapy for me is that the job is ever evolving, new research is being done and a Physiotherapist is expected to remain current. The CPA states that physiotherapists must “enhance their expertise through lifelong acquisition and refinement of knowledge, skills, abilities and professional behaviors”. On going learning is something that I personally value and am encouraged by the opportunity to do this within Physiotherapy. Additionally, my code of ethics matches that of the CPA in regard to the emphasis placed on respect. My personal ethics are to be accepting of other’s rights, beliefs, values and decisions, much like the CPA. Ongoing learning and respect are similarities that exist because I am drawn to a profession in which my values are consistent with that of the association. Working in a field that did not share my values would cause unnecessary stress and frustration. When codes of ethics align, the work environment is more satisfying and common goals can be

What I believe are the most important values in life are not necessarily the same for a professional association. The CPA code of ethics stresses the importance of “enhancing the reputation and standing of the physiotherapy profession”. Personally, recognition is not something that I seek; I prefer to work under the radar. While personal recognition is not essential, in a professional setting, it is crucial for the profession as a whole to be prevalent in society in order to promote the services available, and show the value of physiotherapy. An additional difference is that my code of ethics includes respect of the environment, which is not part of the CPA’s. I value my time in nature and how I interact with the world around me. My personal code of ethics is about me as a whole person and guides how I act in many roles, not just as a physiotherapist. The CPA is focused on the interactions that will occur from a professional standpoint focusing on one aspect of a member’s life. Differences exist between my code of conduct and that of the CPA, due to different overall goals and