Additional information

AMA Code of Medical Ethics
Code of Medical Ethics overview
A page from the AMA Code of Medical Ethics
Code of Medical Ethics Preface & Preamble
Page zoomed in on the word ethics, being underlined by a red-inked pen
Why does the medical profession need a code of ethics?
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2 MIN READ

Direct-to-Consumer Diagnostic Imaging Tests

Physicians should consider whether they should offer diagnostic imaging services that are not scientifically validated or without a physician referral.

Ethics
2 MIN READ

Direct-to-Consumer Advertisement of Prescription Drugs

Direct-to-consumer advertising carries the risk of creating unrealistic expectations for patients and conflicts of interest for physicians.

Ethics
1 MIN READ

Prescribing & Dispensing Drugs & Devices

Physicians' ethical responsibility is to their patient’s interests as prescribers and dispensers of drugs and devices.

Ethics
1 MIN READ

Sale of Non-Health-Related Goods

The sale of non-health-related goods presents a conflict of interest and threatens to erode the primary obligation of physicians to their patients.

Ethics
2 MIN READ

Sale of Health-Related Products

Physicians who choose to sell health-related products from their offices or through their office website or other online venues have ethical obligations.

Ethics
2 MIN READ

Consultation, Referral & Second Opinions

Physicians’ fiduciary obligation to promote patients’ best interests and welfare can include consulting other physicians for advice.

Ethics
1 MIN READ

Incentives to Patients for Referrals

Physicians must not offer financial incentives or other valuable incentives to current patients in exchange for recruitment of other patients.

Ethics
3 MIN READ

Advertising & Publicity

Physicians should design their communication to convey information to the public in a readily comprehensible manner.

Ethics
2 MIN READ

Treating Self or Family

In general, physicians should not treat themselves or members of their own families.

Ethics