Definition of Public Health Workers
- Includes individuals engaged in health and health-related work.
- Employed in government-owned hospitals, clinics, health centers, rural health units, barangay health stations, and similar establishments.
- Encompasses both professional and non-professional staff.
General Principles Governing Conduct
- Service to mankind is the primary obligation, beyond financial gain.
- Uphold ethical standards and pride in the profession.
- Apply appropriate technical knowledge to serve clients effectively.
- Perform civic duties and cooperate with government authorities.
- Continuously improve skills and knowledge.
- Work as team members in integrated health service delivery.
- Protect the interests, reputation, and dignity of colleagues.
- Recognize the Department of Health as the lead agency in public health.
Values to be Adopted
- Humane Service: Treat all clients with respect, compassion, and provide necessary information.
- Integrity: Seek professional improvement, avoid overstepping expertise, reject personal favors, and uphold the profession's dignity.
- Justice: Provide equal treatment without bias; favor common good and less privileged.
- Generosity: Be ready to serve beyond duty, participate in emergencies, and coordinate with other agencies.
- Courage: Assert rights, take necessary risks, enforce rules without fear or favor.
Duties and Obligations
- To Clientele: Faithful service, non-discrimination, honesty, confidentiality (with exceptions), quality and prompt service throughout treatment, and responsiveness at all times.
- To the Community: Cooperate with local authorities, assist in justice administration, provide accurate public health information, organize community health initiatives, and be available during emergencies.
- To Co-workers: Maintain harmonious relations, avoid harmful competition, and seek consultations for clients’ and community’s benefit.
- To Government: Ensure services reach intended populations, contribute to socioeconomic development through health maintenance, pay taxes, use resources efficiently, understand government health programs, and strive for excellence in public service.
Penalties for Violations
- Willful interference or coercion against public health workers results in fines from ₱20,000 to ₱40,000, imprisonment of up to one year, or both.
- Public officials committing offenses additionally face disqualification from office.
Effectivity
- The Code takes effect fifteen days after publication in two national newspapers.
- Adopted in November 1999 by the Secretary of Health.