This code is a guide to the ethical conduct expected of clients and certified professionals of the American Institute of Healthcare Compliance, Inc. (AIHC®). The code also aims to inform the public of the principles to which health care compliance professionals are committed.
The health care industry operates in a heavily regulated environment with a variety of identifiable risk areas. In addition to the challenges associated with patient care, health care providers are subject to voluminous and, at times, complex sets of rules governing administrative operations. Over the last decade, the risk associated with non-compliance has grown dramatically. Those serving in a position of compliance in a health care organization have assumed great responsibility and should be concerned with the manner in which they carry out their duty as a compliance professional.
Clients and those certified through AIHC® are viewed by employers and the public as compliance professionals. The very word professional implies that you are an expert. The following competencies are expected:
Professional Conduct & Personal Development:
- Support and actively contribute to the mission and vision of your organization.
- Strive for the highest standards of quality while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
- Consistently perform your responsibilities to the best of your abilities.
- Demonstrate professionalism through good manners and proper etiquette at all times.
- Uphold high ethical and moral standards.
- Maintain a positive, respectful, and professional demeanor, even in challenging situations.
- Acknowledge areas for personal and professional growth and take steps to improve.
- Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, policies, and professional standards.
- Maintain and expand your knowledge through continuing education, professional development, and self-directed learning.
Workplace & Interpersonal Conduct:
- Lead by example and encourage others to uphold professional and ethical standards.
- Develop and maintain knowledge, skills, and tools needed to perform your role effectively.
- Appreciate and support colleagues and team members.
- Act with honesty and fairness in all professional interactions.
- Respect and acknowledge the talents of others. Respect includes being punctual and valuing others’ time—arriving late may suggest your time is more important than that of your colleagues.
- Practice humility and generously recognize the contributions of others.
Revised August 2026