BSHAA Code of Practice

Upon joining the society each member accepts a series of responsibilities. These responsibilities are set out in the Society's Code of Practice, and define what is expected of a member; failure to fulfil this expectation is regarded as a breach of the Code and may warrant disciplinary action by the Council including temporary or permanent exclusion from membership.

The main areas covered by the code of practice are outlined below. A full copy of the Code of Practice may be obtained by downloading a copy or contacting  secretary@bshaa.com.

The BSHAA Code of Practice is being redrafted. Please submit any comments by 1 March 2010. A copy of the draft can be downloaded.

Responsibilty to the Society

The development of the Society depends upon the support of individual members. Members are therefore expected to comply in the following areas:

• Furtherance of the Society's objectives
• Support local and national meetings wherever practicable
• Make themselves available for election to the Council and/or its committees
• Comply with The Hearing Aid Council Code of Practice
• Deal expeditiously with all communications from official bodies
• Cease to dispense immediately they become bankrupt or their employer becomes insolvent
• Adopt correct trading practices

Responsibilty to the Client

The prime responsibility of each member is to act at all times in the best interests of their client. In consideration of this members shall:

• Give hearing advice based on improving the client's quality of life, and take every step necessary to satisfy the client's hearing needs.
• Respect patient confidentiality
• Not use the relationship with the client, for purposes other than supplying advice and/or equipment for improving hearing.
• Make clear all financial consequences before the patient becomes irrevocably committed.
• Make appropriate provision for prompt repair of instruments, and rehabilitative support for the client.
• Attend to client's need for help and advice within a reasonable period of time.
• Provide easy access by telephone/fax or email for clients, and reply to communications promptly.
• Honour terms of guarantees, trials, and money back arrangements.
• Provide for patient safety by taking out Professional Indemnity Insurance.
• In addition to the above, BSHAA recognises that members have responsibilities in relation to good audiological practice and the advertising code.

Fuller details are contained in BSHAA's Code of Practice Booklet.