What is the primary purpose of the ASHA Code of Ethics?

The primary purpose of the ASHA Code of Ethics is to provide clear and comprehensive guidelines for professional conduct in the field of speech-language pathology. This document outlines the ethical responsibilities that practitioners must uphold, including principles such as protecting client welfare, maintaining professional competence, and ensuring truthfulness in their professional interactions.

These guidelines help to create a standard for ethical practice, ensuring that all professionals in the field are held to the same high standards and are accountable for their actions. By adhering to the Code of Ethics, speech-language pathologists can effectively promote trust and integrity within their practice, fostering positive outcomes for clients and the community they serve.

While promoting cultural competence, developing standardized tests, and establishing academic requirements are important aspects of the profession, they do not encompass the primary aim of the Code of Ethics, which is fundamentally focused on guiding ethical behavior and professional relationships.