Ethical Principles
| Principle | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Autonomy | Respect the patient’s informed choice |
| Beneficence | Act in the patient’s best interest |
| Non-maleficence | Avoid harm |
| Justice | Fair distribution of care and resources |
Codes
- Medical Board of Australia, Good Medical Practice code of conduct
- AOA Code of Conduct and Ethical Framework
- RACS Code of Conduct
- Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights sets out patient rights
- NHMRC guidelines govern research involving people
Professional Issues
- Declare conflicts of interest with industry to patients and colleagues
- Mandatory notification to Ahpra for impairment, intoxication, sexual misconduct or significant departure from accepted standards
- Bullying, discrimination and sexual harassment are unacceptable. RACS Operating with Respect training
- Look after personal health and have a general practitioner
- Maintain CPD and audit outcomes
- Respect confidentiality, with exceptions such as mandatory reporting
- Billing must be accurate and transparent, see Australian Healthcare Funding
- Work within the scope of practice and seek help early
- Social media posts must follow Ahpra advertising rules
- Treat colleagues and trainees with respect
Fellowship Examination
- Ethics scenarios include a colleague who seems impaired, a request from industry, and a patient demanding inappropriate surgery
- Apply the four principles, the codes of conduct and the law to reach a clear plan
- Escalate concerns through the head of unit and document actions
Reviewed by Professor Phong Tran, Head of Orthopaedic Surgery, Western Health. Last updated 10 October 2026.