Code of Conduct — The Roman Catholic Society of Medicine

Code of Conduct - The Roman Catholic Society of Medicine (RCSMed)

Version 1.0
Effective Date: 7 June 2026

1. Purpose

The Roman Catholic Society of Medicine (“the Society”) seeks to foster a professional community of healthcare practitioners, students, academics, and supporters who are committed to excellence in healthcare, ethical practice, service to others, and the values of the Catholic faith.

This Code of Conduct establishes the standards of behaviour expected of all members, officers, volunteers, representatives, and participants in Society activities.

2. Scope

This Code applies to:

Members of the Society.
Associate Members.
Honorary Members.
Fellows
Officers and office holders.
Volunteers.
Event attendees.
Individuals representing the Society.
Participants in Society-operated online platforms and communications.

The Code applies during:

Society meetings.
Conferences and events.
Online discussions.
Social media interactions conducted on behalf of the Society.
Official correspondence.
Any activity where an individual is acting in a Society capacity.

3. Principles

Members are expected to uphold the following principles:

Professional Excellence

Members shall strive for high standards of competence, integrity, and professionalism within their respective fields.

Respect for Human Dignity

Members shall treat all persons with dignity, courtesy, compassion, and respect.

Service

Members shall seek to promote the wellbeing of patients, colleagues, communities, and society.

Integrity

Members shall act honestly, ethically, and in a manner that promotes trust in both the healthcare professions and the Society.

Faith and Witness

Members should support the Society’s mission and contribute positively to its objectives while respecting the diverse experiences and backgrounds of fellow members.

4. Expected Conduct

Members shall:

Behave professionally and respectfully.
Communicate courteously and constructively.
Respect differing viewpoints and engage in civil discussion.
Comply with applicable laws and professional regulations.
Maintain appropriate professional boundaries.
Protect confidential information.
Use Society resources responsibly.
Support a welcoming and inclusive environment.

5. Unacceptable Conduct

The following conduct is prohibited:

Harassment and Abuse

Harassment of any kind.
Bullying or intimidation.
Threatening behaviour.
Abusive, insulting, or degrading language.

Discrimination

Unlawful discrimination against any individual.

Misrepresentation

Falsely claiming Society positions, honours, qualifications, or authority.
Misrepresenting Society policies or views.

Improper Use of Society Name or Branding

Unauthorised use of Society logos, seals, certificates, or branding.
Representing personal opinions as official Society positions without authorisation.

Disruptive Behaviour

Deliberately disrupting meetings, events, or online forums.
Persistent hostile or inflammatory conduct.

Unethical Conduct

Behaviour likely to bring the Society into disrepute.
Serious breaches of professional ethics or standards.

6. Confidentiality

Members shall respect confidential information obtained through Society activities.

Confidential information shall not be disclosed without proper authority unless required by law.

7. Social Media

Members using social media in connection with the Society shall:

Communicate respectfully.
Avoid harassment or personal attacks.
Avoid presenting personal views as official Society positions unless authorised.
Protect confidential information.
Uphold the reputation of the Society.

The Society recognises the right of members to express personal opinions in a lawful and respectful manner.

8. Reporting Concerns

Concerns regarding potential breaches of this Code may be reported to the Society’s governing body or designated officer.

Reports should be made in good faith and contain sufficient information to allow proper consideration.

9. Review and Investigation

The Society may investigate alleged breaches of this Code.

Any investigation should be conducted fairly, impartially, and with due regard to confidentiality.

Individuals subject to investigation should be given an opportunity to respond to concerns raised.

10. Disciplinary Measures

Where a breach of this Code is established, the Society may take one or more of the following actions:

Informal advice or guidance.
Formal warning.
Suspension from Society activities.
Removal from office.
Revocation of honours or designations.
Termination of membership.

Any action taken should be proportionate to the circumstances.

11. Amendments

This Code may be amended by the Society’s governing body from time to time.

The most current version shall be published on the Society website.

12. Acceptance

Membership in the Society constitutes agreement to uphold this Code of Conduct and to support the mission and objectives of The Roman Catholic Society of Medicine.