Effective Date: Janury 1, 2025

Last Updated: January 1, 2025

1. At The International Pause Institute("the Institute"), we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical behavior. This Code of Conduct ("the Code") outlines the principles and expectations that guide our interactions with patients, colleagues, and the broader community. Adherence to this Code is essential to maintain trust, ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards, and provide exceptional care.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this Code is to:

Define the standards of behavior expected from all Institute representatives and patients.

Promote a culture of respect, integrity, and ethical practice.

Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards.

Protect the rights and dignity of patients, staff, and stakeholders.

3. Scope

This Code applies to all individuals associated with the Institute, including but not limited to:

Physicians

Nurses

Technicians

Administrative staff

Volunteers

Contractors

Patients

4. Standards of Conduct

a. Patient Care

Compassion and Respect: Provide care that is compassionate, respectful, and patient-centered.

Confidentiality: Maintain patient confidentiality and privacy at all times.

Informed Consent: Ensure patients are fully informed and provide consent before any treatment.

Quality of Care: Deliver care that meets or exceeds established medical standards.

b. Professionalism

Integrity: Uphold honesty and integrity in all professional interactions.

Competence: Engage in continuous professional development to maintain and enhance skills.

Accountability: Accept responsibility for actions and decisions.

Appearance: Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.

c. Workplace Conduct

Respect: Treat all colleagues with respect and dignity.

Collaboration: Foster a collaborative and supportive work environment.

Harassment-Free Environment: Refrain from any form of harassment or discrimination.

Safety: Adhere to all safety protocols to ensure a safe workplace.

d. Legal and Ethical Compliance

Adherence to Laws: Comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

Ethical Standards: Follow ethical guidelines as established by relevant professional bodies.

Conflict of Interest: Disclose and avoid any conflicts of interest.

Accurate Reporting: Ensure all documentation and billing are accurate and truthful.

5. Patient Code of Conduct

To maintain a safe, respectful, and effective environment for healthcare delivery, we expect our patients to adhere to the following standards:

Respectful Behavior: Treat all Institute staff, other patients, and visitors with courtesy and respect.

Honest Communication: Provide accurate and complete information about your health, medical history, and personal information.

Compliance with Treatment: Follow the agreed-upon treatment plan and notify your healthcare provider if you have concerns or difficulties

Appointment Attendance: Attend all scheduled appointments or provide adequate notice if cancellation or rescheduling is necessary.

Financial Responsibility: Fulfill any financial obligations related to your care in a timely manner.

Prohibited Conduct:

Refrain from:

Abusive, threatening, or violent behavior.

Discrimination or harassment based on race, gender, ethnicity, religion, or any other protected characteristic.

Unauthorized recording or photographing within the Institute premises.

Possession of weapons or illegal substances on Institute property.

6. Violations and Termination of Care

The Institute is committed to providing quality care to all patients. However, failure to adhere to the Patient Code of Conduct may result in the termination of the patient-provider relationship. Grounds for termination include, but are not limited to:

Non-Compliance: Repeated failure to comply with the treatment plan or medical advice.

Abusive Behavior: Verbal or physical abuse towards staff, patients, or visitors.

Disruptive Conduct: Actions that disrupt the Institute's operations or pose a threat to the safety of others.

Fraudulent Activity: Providing false information or engaging in fraudulent behavior.

Termination Procedure:

Warning: In most cases, patients will receive a written warning outlining the concerning behavior and the necessary corrective actions.

Investigation: The Institute will investigate the reported behavior to ensure fairness and accuracy.

Termination Notice: If the behavior persists or is deemed severe, the patient will receive a formal termination letter via certified mail, detailing the reasons for termination and the effective date.

Transition of Care: The Institute will provide emergency care for a reasonable period (e.g., 30 days) post-termination and offer assistance in transferring medical records to a new healthcare provider.

7. Reporting Violations

Any violations of this Code should be reported promptly to Dr. Betsy Greenleaf or office manager. Reports can be made confidentially and without fear of retaliation.

8. Enforcement and Disciplinary Actions

Violations of this Code may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or affiliation with the Institute. All reports of misconduct will be investigated thoroughly and fairly.

9. Review and Acknowledgment

All Institute representatives and patients are required to review and acknowledge this Code. The Institute reserves the right to amend this Code as necessary to reflect organizational changes, legal requirements, or best practices.

10. Contact Information

For questions or concerns regarding this Code, please contact:

Dr. Betsy Greenleaf or Office Manager

International Pause Insitute

PO Box 756

Clarksburg NJ 08510

11. ApprovalApproved By:

Dr. Betsy Greenleaf

1/1/2025