*

Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics for Alberta physiotherapists spells out the word RESPECT and embodies professional ethical values intended
to guide physiotherapists in their interactions with clients
1
, other health practitioners or service providers and the public. The
Code complements universally accepted bio-ethical principles, laws and standards of practice for Alberta physiotherapists that
form the basis for accountable practice. The professional ethical values described herein should be considered individually and
collectively when addressing ethical situations. Our values are not listed in order of importance. Instead, each should be
balanced against the other and considered in relation to relevant principles, laws and standards to determine a course of
action that best serves a clients needs and circumstances.
Respect
Physiotherapists:
y Demonstrate regard for client autonomy.
y Strive to empower client to participate in making informed decisions about their health based on
their values and beliefs.
y Honor clients right to privacy and condentiality.
y Accept decisions made by client about their health.
y Respect all laws and persons that are involved in and impact physiotherapy care.
Empathy
Physiotherapists:
y Encourage open communication to identify with and acknowledge client needs.
y Demonstrate understanding and concern for clients emotional, physical, and spiritual challenges as they adjust
to changes in their health status.
y Provide services with a caring attitude and compassionate spirit, mindful of all forms of diversity including racial,
cultural, sexual, linguistic, socioeconomic, religious, physical and other individual client diferences.
Safety
Physiotherapists:
y Behave in a manner that protects the client, themselves and others with the intent to minimize the risk of harm.
Professionalism
Physiotherapists:
y Conduct themselves so as to maintain public condence in the integrity and dignity of the profession.
y Uphold the professions standards of practice by maintaining high levels of competence and a lifelong
commitment to learning.
y Utilize their skills to enhance human welfare and the betterment of society.
y Engage in organizational and business practices that benet clients and the community.
y Contribute to improving the awareness, accessibility and quality of physiotherapy services.
y Support colleagues and help them to maintain high standards of professional practice.
y Take appropriate action when it is determined that a colleagues professional practice is not acceptable.
Equity
Physiotherapists:
y Provide services in a fair manner, recognizing client may have diferent care needs based on their
particular circumstances.
y Base service decisions on clients need, recognizing that clients who are disadvantaged (socially,
nancially, educationally or otherwise) may require additional attention to be treated fairly.
Collaboration
Physiotherapists:
y Work collaboratively to serve clients best interests.
y Involve client as a partner in developing and implementing a care plan that will best suit their needs and circumstances.
y Understand and respect the role of other health practitioners and service providers while striving to optimize client care.
Trustworthiness
Physiotherapists:
y Are honest and truthful, so clients and the public have condence in them as professionals and in the services
they provide.
y Conduct themselves in such a manner as to reect the highest standard of professional integrity and responsibility.
* The College of Physical Therapists of Alberta operates as Physiotherapy Alberta College + Association.
** Client is a broad generic term which refers to patients or their legally authorized representative, groups of individuals or populations who can benet from
physiotherapy services.