Revising the code of ethics of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists: Process and outcome

Abstract

Objective: To describe the procedure adopted by the Ethics Committee of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists in revising its 1992 foundational code of ethics and to outline the substantial changes agreed upon and subsequently ratified by the College's General Council. Method: The members of the Ethics Committee reviewed their experience of revising the code by monitoring the process as we went along, examining all relevant documents that emerged over the 18 months it took, and discussing both procedure and outcome with the benefit of hindsight. Results and conclusion: The revision process comprised two consultative stages, three face to face meetings of the committee..