Code of Ethics

Professional standards and ethical guidelines for Ayurvedic practitioners in British Columbia

Core Ethical Principles

Based on traditional Ayurvedic values and modern professional standards

Ahimsa (Non-Harm)

Do no harm through action, words, or intentions. Prioritize client safety and well-being in all practices.

Satya (Truthfulness)

Practice honesty in all communications, qualifications, and scope of practice. Transparent about limitations.

Dharma (Duty)

Fulfill professional responsibilities with integrity, maintaining the highest standards of practice.

Seva (Service)

Serve with compassion and dedication, prioritizing client wellbeing while maintaining ethical professional practices and fair compensation.

Vidya (Knowledge)

Commit to continuous learning and maintaining competency through ongoing education and self-study.

Prashamsa (Respect)

Honor the wisdom of Ayurvedic tradition while respecting cultural diversity and individual beliefs. Members are committed to maintaining the integrity of Ayurveda as a comprehensive wellness science, while ensuring that personal religious practices and spiritual beliefs remain separate from professional applications, allowing all clients to benefit from Ayurvedic principles regardless of their faith or cultural background.

Professional Standards

Specific ethical obligations for AABC members

Client Care & Safety

Obligations:

  • • Obtain informed consent before all treatments
  • • Maintain professional boundaries at all times
  • • Refer to healthcare providers when appropriate
  • • Respect client autonomy and decision-making
  • • Ensure physical and emotional safety

Prohibited:

  • • Diagnosing medical conditions
  • • Prescribing pharmaceutical medications
  • • Sexual or romantic relationships with clients
  • • Practicing under the influence of substances
  • • Exceeding scope of practice or training

Confidentiality & Privacy

Requirements:

  • • Protect all client information and records
  • • Obtain consent before sharing information
  • • Secure storage of client files and data
  • • Professional discretion in all communications
  • • Comply with privacy legislation

Exceptions:

  • • Legal requirement to report (child abuse)
  • • Imminent danger to self or others
  • • Court-ordered disclosure
  • • Quality assurance with client consent
  • • Professional consultation with permission

Professional Conduct

Standards:

  • • Accurate representation of qualifications
  • • Fair and transparent pricing practices
  • • Professional appearance and demeanor
  • • Respectful communication at all times
  • • Cultural sensitivity and inclusivity
  • • Maintain Ayurveda as a wellness science separate from personal religious practices

Continuing Education:

  • • Maintain current knowledge and skills
  • • Participate in professional development
  • • Stay informed of industry developments
  • • Seek supervision when needed
  • • Reflect on practice and seek improvement

Ethical Decision Making

Framework for navigating complex ethical situations

Six-Step Decision Process

1

Identify the Issue

Clearly define the ethical dilemma or concern

2

Gather Information

Collect relevant facts and consider all perspectives

3

Consider Options

Identify possible courses of action and their consequences

4

Apply Ethics

Evaluate options against ethical principles and codes

5

Take Action

Implement the most ethical solution available

6

Reflect & Learn

Evaluate outcomes and learn for future situations

Ethics Enforcement

AABC is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in our profession

Reporting Process

Members and the public can report ethical concerns to the AABC Ethics Committee through:

  • • Formal written complaint process
  • • Anonymous reporting system

Anonymous Ethics Report

All complaints are investigated thoroughly with appropriate due process and potential sanctions including education, supervision, or membership suspension.