A review of the Medical Board of Australia code of conduct for good medical practice

The aim of this discussion is to consider and refresh your understand of the Good Medical Practice (the Code) as developed by the Medical Board of Australia. The Code outlines principles that characterise good medical practice and which makes explicit the standards of ethical and professional conduct expected of doctors by their professional peers and the community. The Code's application will vary according to individual circumstances, but the principles [as set out in the Code] should not be compromised. Where professional conduct varies significantly from the Code, explanation and justification for decisions and actions will be required. Serious or repeated failure to meet the standards will have consequences for ongoing medical registration. This Code adds to the 2006 Australian Medical Association Code of Ethics and is consistent with the Declaration of Geneva and the International Code of Medical Ethics, issued by the World Medical Association. This Code is not a substitute for the provisions of legislation and case law and where a conflict arises between the Code and the law, the law takes precedence.