Question & AnswerQ&A (DOH)
The Code of Conduct of Public Health Workers is based on Republic Act No. 7305, known as the Magna Carta of Public Health Workers.
Public health workers include all persons engaged in health and health-related work employed in government-owned or operated hospitals, sanitaria, health infirmaries, health centers, rural health units, barangay health stations, clinics, and other health-related establishments. This includes both professional and non-professional technical and support personnel.
The primary principles include service to mankind regardless of race, sex, creed, or political affiliation; upholding professional and ethical standards; applying appropriate technical knowledge; performing civic duties; continuous self-improvement; cooperation as team members; safeguarding colleagues' interests; and recognizing the Department of Health as the lead agency in health service delivery.
The public health worker shall be humane, uphold personal and professional integrity, and be just.
They should treat every client with respect, compassion, responsiveness, and without discrimination. They should provide necessary information for clients to make informed decisions, uphold the sanctity of human life, and not participate in acts curtailing life.
Public health workers must guard confidential information entrusted by clients and not divulge it except when required by law, in the interest of public health and safety, or with the client's consent.
Public health workers should maintain harmonious relationships, avoid destructive competition, and seek assistance through consultations when necessary for the benefit of clients and community.
Offenders may be fined between Twenty Thousand Pesos (P20,000) and Forty Thousand Pesos (P40,000), or imprisoned for up to one year, or both. If the offender is a public official, they may also be disqualified from office.
They must cooperate with local authorities, assist in justice administration in medico-legal cases, provide accurate health risk information, organize communities for self-reliance in health, and be available during emergencies or calamities.
The Code took effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in two national newspapers of general circulation, following its adoption in November 1999.