Code of Ethics
In accordance with NSCO Regulation 11, an optometrist licensed in Nova Scotia must do all of the following:
- Practice based on expert clinical knowledge, always with a primary concern for the health and well-being of patients by constantly endeavoring to achieve appropriate clinical outcomes.
- Execute professional responsibilities in a competent, efficient and effective manner
- Obtain appropriate consent from a patient before undertaking any diagnostic of therapeutic procedure.
- Limit services to a level that is commensurate with their competence and refer and consult when appropriate
- Maintain the privacy of all patient information, unless required or authorized by law to provide patient information to third parties
- Behave in a truthful and forthright manner in their dealings with patients, colleagues and the public.
- Promote and maintain cordial and unselfish relationships with members of the optometric profession for the benefit of patients and the public.
- Avoid any conflict of interest, including conflicts outlined in the Act, Regulations, By-Laws, Standards of Practice and college policies
- Report any suspected breach of this code of ethics to the Chair of the Complaints committee
- Provide optometric services with equal diligence to all patients
- Act with integrity, honesty, respect and fairness in all dealings with patients, other optometrists and the College
- Respond promptly to all communications from the College if a response is requested or required
- Cooperate with all inquiries from the College