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National Code of Ethics for Case Management
2.4 Autonomy
Autonomy is the principle to support the individual to be
free from both controlling interferences by others and from
personal limitations that prevent meaningful choice.
Autonomous individuals act intentionally, with understanding,
and without controlling influences.
At all times Case Managers respect the rights of Clients to
self-determination and autonomy.
3. CASE MANAGEMENT PRACTICE
AND CONDUCT
Case Managers commit to ethical practice that guides their
professional conduct.
Case Managers have a duty in their ethical practice and
professional conduct to:
• Clients and the Community;
• their Employer;
• the Profession of Case Management; and
• their Colleagues.
3.1 Duties to Clients and the community
3.1.1 Consent
Case Managers obtain informed consent from Clients (or
lawfully designated others acting on behalf of the Client)
by providing the Client with all of the relevant information,
allowing sufficient time and/or opportunity for the Client
to consider the material, provide and explain reasonable
options and/or alternative courses of action or services and
any potential negative consequences or results (which are
reasonably foreseeable).
In the process of obtaining consent, Case Managers never
engage in misleading, deceptive, oppressive, undue pressure
or unconscionable conduct.
Case Managers ensure that Clients understand the principle
of informed consent and the circumstances in which it may
be required.
Where Clients have limited capacity to comprehend or give
informed consent, Case Managers will provide information
in accordance with the Clients’ level of understanding and/
or language.
Informed consent will be obtained in writing, from the Client
or representative, prior to the commencement of services;
except in the most rare and exceptional circumstances.
Case Managers advise Clients that their informed consent
may be withdrawn at any time.
3.1.2 Accurate and timely information
Case Managers ensure that Clients and others receive
accurate, current, complete and non-misleading information
in a timely manner. This relates to, but is not limited to,
information concerning:
• the nature, type and extent of the services available to
Clients and any consequences of utilising these services;
• the commitment and obligations required of the Client;
• Client and others rights; and
• financial and/or fees for case management services and
other associated costs.
Case management services and advice is grounded in best
evidence practice and/or evidence based practice.
Any promotional, advertising or informational materials must
be accurate, not misleading and reflect positively on the
profession of case management.
3.1.3 Professional Competence
Case Managers make sure that on all occasions they meet the
highest standards of professional competence.
Undertakings to Clients are honoured and fulfilled.
Case Managers maintain their competencies to practice
in a professional manner and fashion. In particular, Case
Managers:
• continually monitor, update and add to their professional
knowledge and skills through professional development,
and/or adhering to the principles of lifelong learning;
• communicate to other team members and colleagues in a
timely manner so as not to bring disadvantage to Clients;
• ensure that Clients receive appropriate services, advice
and referrals to enable them to receive professional
treatment, services and resources in a timely manner;
• do not practice beyond their scope of practice;
• keep and maintain current and accurate documentation,
correspondence and recordings; and
• comply with CMSA`s National Standards of Practice for
Case Management.
3.1.4 Confidentiality
In the course of acting for Clients and others and in providing
professional services, Case Managers shall treat all
information as confidential, unless otherwise required by law.
Case Managers shall inform the Client about the limits of
confidentiality in a given situation, the purposes for which
information is obtained, and how it may be used.
Case Managers shall obtain informed consent from the Client
before the commencement of providing services.
Case Managers shall not discuss, gossip or identify a Client
outside of their work environment.
Case Managers do not disclose information about Clients, or
confidences made by Clients and others, unless:
• Client’s consent is in existence;
• required by law; or
• there exists compelling and overwhelming moral and
ethical reasons for disclosure.