Ethics Information
The medical profession has long subscribed to a body of ethical statements developed for the benefit of the patient. As a member of this profession, a physician must recognize their responsibility to patients, to society, to other health professionals, and to self.
Members of the APA and the IPS are expected to follow the Principles of Medical Ethics. Failure to do so can result in sanctions for unethical conduct ranging from a reprimand to expulsion. Action may also be taken by the Illinois Department of Professional and Financial Regulation (IDFPR.)
The APA Ethics Committee receives frequent requests for opinions. The questions center around the ethicality of certain behavior and conduct. The Committee has published a booklet Opinions of the Ethics Committee on the Principles of Medical Ethics.
Filing an Ethics Complaint
The American Psychiatric Association, and the Illinois Psychiatric Society, recognize that psychiatrists are responsible for providing competent and ethical care for their patients. Therefore, when complaints are received about members who may have behaved unethically, those complaints are taken seriously.
Anyone concerned about the care they received is encouraged to review the following: APA Procedures for Handling Grievances and Complaints of Unethical Conduct
If, after reviewing these Principles, an individual feels an ethics violation has occurred, they will need to put their complaint in writing. In doing so, it will need to include such information as the events pertaining to the concern, the name and location of the psychiatrist involved, and any other information which will assist in our preliminary review. This will also be sent to the APA Ethics Committee for review.
A written complaint must be sent to the IPS office by USPS Certified Mail Return Receipt Requested.
Complaints should be addressed to:
Ethics Chair
113 McHenry Rd.
Suite 239
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089