Code of Conduct

Purpose:  To establish guidelines that promote ethical work practices and minimum standards for ambulance providers and personnel.  Adherence to the following practices and standards of conduct are mandatory for membership with the Greater Houston EMS Council.

·         Pledge to support, promote, and strive to enhance standards in the Houston Metropolitan Area;

·         Assist the Council in creating public awareness of the EMS system and it’s role in the community;

·         Promote collegial and mentoring relationship between agencies;

·         Maintain professional and respectful relationships within a provider’s organization, and with other providers in the Houston area;

·         Unlawful harassment and discrimination will not be permitted;

·         Members should not participate in any activities that could appear to conflict with your responsibilities to the Greater Houston EMS Council;

·         Maintain accurate books and records that reflect the true nature and costs of the transactions represented including financial, operational or statistical data or other similar information;

·         All members will acknowledge and agree to uphold all laws and regulations relating to the ambulance industry in relation to State Laws, local governmental requirements, and Federal laws pertaining to business practices and reimbursement;

·         All members must agree to fully cooperate with any appropriate governmental investigation or inquiry;

·         Establish and maintain a standard of care and appropriate medical practices to include, but not be limited to a QA program, direct interaction between the Medical Director and the employees, clinical evaluations and education programs for the employees;

·         All members will conduct pre-employment background checks on potential employees;

·         Maintain a drug free workplace

·         All members shall have safety policies and provide; OSHA and Hazmat training to all employees to ensure the health and safety of the work staff and to comply with all Federal, State, and local laws and regulations;

·         Members must maintain a HIPPA program that educates employees and upholds requirements mandated by Federal law; and

·         No person or organization is allowed to become or remain a member if they:

o        Falsify information submitted to the Council;

o        Willfully act to discredit or defraud the Council;

o        Fail to meet financial obligations to the Council;

o        Engage in any activity which may conflict with the interests, goals, and objectives of the Council;

o        Attempt to commit theft or misappropriation of any property of the Council; and

o        Are convicted of any violations of Federal, State, or local laws to include fraud, larceny, bribery or other felonies that would have an adverse effect on the EMS industry.