Supporting Ethical Practice

Each and every day health care providers are involved in decision making processes that have significant impact on our patients and their families. Ethics often plays a great role in these decisions.

The Ethics Committee ensures corporate policies; practices and patient care reflect the Mission, Vision and Values of the North Bay Regional Health Centre and the highest standard of ethical practice. By using their medical expertise and experience, these members serve as a forum to provide education and guidance to the hospital community, to ensure ethical decisions have the patient’s best interest at the forefront.

Reporting to the Quality Committee of the Board, the Ethics Committee is accountable to patients, families, staff and stakeholders. (The Ethics Committee Responsibilities)

Members of this committee include:

• Patient Relations Officer/Patient Advocate
• Peer Support
• Ethicist
• Senior Team Member
• Chaplain
• Nursing Staff
• Allied Health Staff
• Quality Improvement Coordinator
• Policy Coordinator
• Management Staff
• Professional Practice Leader
• Community Member
• Volunteer (senior person)
• Chair of Education Sub-Committee
• Chair of Case Consultation Sub-Committee
• REB Member
• Physicians(s)

A work plan and the Terms of reference are prepared and reviewed annually. (Ethics Framework: All Things Considered)