The Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants understands the importance, and the responsibility we have to conform to standards of care and behavior in the provision of health care. We have an obligation to our patients, colleagues, other health professionals and to the public to adhere to standards of conduct that ensures their dignity, and promotes understanding, compassion and empathy. We recognize that no code is inclusive or encompasses all ethical responsibilities and other obligations, though equally imperative, are not specifically mentioned.

We shall provide health care services to our patients without regard to race, age, creed, gender, culture, values, and nature of illness or socioeconomic status.

We shall be committed to providing medical care with the primary responsibility being the health, safety, welfare and dignity of all individuals.

We shall uphold the principal of confidentiality regarding privileged patient information, unless the release of such information becomes necessary to protect the welfare of the patient or community.

We shall extend to each patient the full measure of our ability as dedicated, empathetic health care providers and shall be responsible for the skillful and proficient transactions of our profession.

We shall adhere to all state and federal laws governing informed consent concerning the patient’s health care.

We shall seek consultation with our supervising physician or other appropriate qualified professionals, whenever such consultation promotes the welfare of the patient and safeguards their health.

We shall be knowledgeable of and responsible for adhering to all regulations and federal and state laws applicable to the practice of our profession.

We shall respect the community of fellow health care providers and promote collegial relationships through service to others in professional and personal capacities.

We shall place service before material gain and guard against conflicts of professional interest.

We shall be cognizant of the needs of the community and shall use the knowledge, skills and experience acquired as professionals to contribute to an improved community.

We shall uphold the tenets of patient autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence and justice.

We shall not participate in or conceal any activity that will bring discredit or dishonor to the profession, and shall strive to expose those who are deficient in character or competence, or who engage in fraud or deception.

We shall promote the supervisory relationship with physicians, realizing that the ultimate responsibility of patient care resides with the physician.

We shall provide only those services for which we are qualified through education or experience, by appropriate delegation or by pertinent legal regulatory processes.

We shall not misrepresent in any manner, directly or indirectly, our training, skills, professional credentials, identity or services.

We shall promote available health care to all individuals regardless of their ability to afford essential medical services.

We shall strive to maintain and enhance the quality of health care we provide by continued self study and education, especially as it pertains to the delivery of specialty medical practices.