The Code of Ethics describes the acceptable professional behaviours of Accredited Dietitians. It provides a structure which enable Accredited Dietitians to transform his/her personal and professional values into actions and provide the public with assurance that Accredited Dietitians will maintain their professional competence and practice with honesty, integrity and fairness. Failure to comply with the Code of Ethics will result in Accredited Dietitian being struck off the register of the Hong Kong Academy of Accredited Dietitians (HKAAD). Members of the public including other healthcare professionals and HKAAD dietitians may lodge complaint about registrants who they consider have failed to adhere to the Code of Ethics.
Provide accurate and truthful information in communicating with the public
Identify and manage conflicts of interest
Not use inaccurate or misleading ways to promote their services. HKAAD Dietitians should: refrain from using service user testimonials regarding clinical services; not engage in false or deceptive advertising of his or her services or promotes; not endorse specific goods or products in a manner that is false or misleading
Treat their colleagues and service users with fairness, honesty, courtesy, respect and good faith
Provide services within all laws and regulations applicable or related to the dietetic profession in Hong Kong.
Dietitians must not have been convicted a criminal offence under the laws of Hong Kong
Act in the best interest of the service user
Avoid and report corruption, fraud or maladministration
Protect the health and safety of service users
Respect service users’ rights, privacy and privileges
Treat individuals with courtesy and sensitivity
Respect the right of individual to make informed choices
Protects confidential information
Withdraw from professional practice when unable to fulfil his or her professional duties and responsibilities to service user and others; has engaged in abuse of substance which could affect his or her practice; been judged by court to be mentally incompetent or has a condition which substantially impairs his or her ability to provide effective service to others.
Practice evidenced based principles with up-to-date information
Communicate appropriately and effectively with service users, colleagues, and other professionals
Present information without personal bias
Recognize that difference of opinion exists
Work within the limitations of their own knowledge and qualifications and should make referrals to other health professionals where appropriate
Work in partnership with colleagues involved in the care, treatment or other services provided to the service user
Assume lifelong responsibility and accountability for personal competence and practice and partake in continuing professional development
Be alert to the occurrence of conflict of interest and make full disclosure of any real or perceived conflict of interest
Not invite accept gifts, monetary incentives or other considerations that affect or may give an appearance of affecting his/her professional judgment
Ensure that they are covered by professional indemnity insurance
