Question: Most of you (whether you already know this or not) agree to comply to a "code of conduct" or "code of ethics" within your organization. As legislation, technology, fads, cultures, and organizational directions change, codes of ethics or conduct must reflect these changes in order to provide a conducive, trustworthy, and conscious workforce. Although it may seem simple in concept, many employees are terminated for "conflicts of interest" in one way or another. Even if you violate no laws (criminal laws) you can be terminated immediately for a conflict of interest. It is important that you are intimately familiar with your organization's code of conduct. This week you will be developing a code of ethics for a fictitious organization (a health system of 10 hospitals and 22 outpatient clinics). Include in your "code of ethics":

1. Your company's values

2. Illustrate conflicts of interest

3. Discuss how you will implement effective training to ensure all employees are familiar with resources from your organization.

4. Discuss how you will address ethical issues that are not specifically covered in your proposed code of ethics.

Hint: Also consider that many organizations have anonymous tip lines (hotlines) to report fraud, waste, and abuse of organizational resources. Use your imagination and have fun developing your "code of ethics".