Standards of Conduct
- An Advocate shall respect the dignity, privacy, and self-determination of all patients, and shall treat all those he or she encounters in his or her work fairly, honestly, and with respect.
- An Advocate shall serve the client and advance the concerns of the client without regard to the individual circumstances, beliefs, or past actions of the client.
- An Advocate shall serve the client regardless of the political, ideological, or religious beliefs of the Advocate.
- An Advocate shall not knowingly make false or misleading representations, and shall honestly and accurately represent him or herself, including his or her qualifications, abilities, authority, and responsibilities.
- An Advocate shall not engage in the practice of advocacy while the ability to do so is impaired by alcohol, drugs, or any substance.
- An Advocate shall not engage in sexual relations with a current client or patient. The Advocate shall not engage in sexual relations with a former patient or client unless one year has passed since the patient or client received treatment from the institution.
- An Advocate shall not develop social relationships with patients or clients. An advocate shall not develop a social relationship with a former patient or client unless six months have passed since the patient or client received treatment from the institution.
- An Advocate shall not verbally, emotionally, physically, or sexually abuse a patient or client.
- An Advocate shall not borrow, take advantage of economically, or misappropriate the personal property of a patient.
- An Advocate shall not charge a fee or accept any consideration in the performance of advocacy services for a client. An exception to this rule is permitted in the case of an unsolicited gift of a token nature, which a reasonable person would consider to be of minimal value.
- An Advocate shall not directly or indirectly influence a current or former patient to change his or her will, nor accept a bequest from the estate of a current or a former patient.
- An Advocate shall identify and avoid actual and potential conflicts of interest which may compromise his or her ability to represent and safeguard the rights of clients. Where there is conflict, the Advocate shall report to the PPAO director. Without limiting the generality of this standard, an Advocate shall not engage in another occupation or activity inconsistent with the practice of advocacy.
