We, the undersigned, seek to maintain the ethical independence of the medical profession and the liberty to practice medicine according to our conscience.
- We believe it is in the patient’s best interests for doctors to adhere to a code of ethics that is independent of any standards set by governments or practices that may be permitted by legislation.
- We believe that as health professionals we have a duty to educate and inform fully so that best management decisions can be made and that such may include a refusal to comply with patient demand where such is inconsistent with good medical practice.
- We further believe there are times when the patient request cannot be complied with because it conflicts with our integrity and ethical stance.
- It is our right and obligation to practice medicine according to our conscience. We will not engage in or facilitate procedures or practices that we believe are in conflict with our conscience.