As a participant in the Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA) Referral Program, I agree to:
- Respond Promptly. Make reasonable efforts to respond to patient referral requests in a timely manner, whether to schedule an appointment, provide next steps, or inform the patient if I am unable to accept the referral.
- Practice Within My Scope of Expertise. Evaluate referrals in good faith and, if I determine that I am not the most appropriate provider for a patient’s condition, communicate this promptly to the patient. When feasible, I will direct the patient to another qualified healthcare professional or appropriate resource.
- Maintain Professional Standards. Conduct my practice in accordance with all applicable laws, licensing requirements, ethical standards, and accepted standards of care within my profession.
- Communicate Honestly. Represent my credentials, training, areas of expertise, and services accurately in my VeDA Provider Directory listing and promptly update my profile if this information changes.
- Treat Patients with Respect. Provide courteous, respectful, and nondiscriminatory interactions with all individuals seeking care, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic.
- Protect Patient Privacy. Handle patient information in accordance with applicable privacy and confidentiality laws and regulations, including HIPAA or other applicable privacy laws.
- Support the Integrity of the Referral Program. Use the referral program solely to facilitate patient access to appropriate vestibular care and refrain from deceptive, misleading, or unethical business or marketing practices.
I understand that participation in the VeDA Referral Program is voluntary and may be suspended or terminated at VeDA’s sole discretion if I fail to comply with this Code of Conduct, provide false or misleading information, or otherwise participate in a manner that is inconsistent with VeDA’s mission or the best interests of the vestibular community.
