Code of Ethics

What are the Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Practice?

This code of ethics and standards are a practical guide for a member’s everyday professional practice. They apply to all practice areas regardless of specialization. The standards do not prescribe technical clinical management standards. The standards are, first and foremost, a tool designed to help professionals assess their practice relative to the expectations of peers, colleagues and the profession as a whole. The standards are performance baselines against which professionals may be measured if their practice is called into question.

For whom were the Code of Ethics and Standards Developed?

The code of ethics and standards were developed for the members of The College of Pedorthics of Canada, including Certified Pedorthist (Canada) (C. Ped (C), Certified Pedorthist Master Craftsman (C. Ped MC), Certified Orthopaedic Footwear Specialist (COFS) and Certified Pedorthic Technician (C. Ped Tech (C)). The scope of practice of the certified pedorthic professional will determine the sections of the Standards of Practice that are relevant.

How were the Code of Ethics and Standards Created?

These standards were confirmed/established based on reviewing our and other professional codes of ethics, a review of current literature, a review of standards of practice for other allied health professions and use of a national standards committee of pedorthists. These standards were created based on available human and financial resources.

Steps we followed to develop the standards:

  1. Identified the need for the profession to have a Standards of Practice document.
  2. Put together a task force which included pedorthists, some of whom were also qualified allied health professionals.
  3. Reviewed relevant literature and other health profession’s Standards of Practice.
  4. Developed a discussion paper.
  5. Developed the proposed standards based on discussion and feedback.
  6. Reviewed and refined proposed standards by Board members, College staff and pedorthists in a variety of regions and settings.
  7. Received College approval.
  8. Published the standards.
  9. Periodically review and revise.

Assumptions Underlying Development of the Code of Ethics and Standards

Clients are often unable to assess quality of services provided by pedorthists, so pedorthists must take personal responsibility for ensuring quality of care.

Assumptions:

  • Pedorthists are committed to maintaining standards of practice through self governance.
  • Pedorthists are committed to continuous development of knowledge, skills and abilities throughout their careers. This enables them to meet constantly evolving standards of professional practice.
  • Pedorthists are committed to the principle of accountability. Public interest takes precedence over self-interest.