Speak Out October 2020 DIGITAL EDITION FINAL

Ethics

Ethics and private practice

“We act ethically and legally when we own or manage a business.”

support and advice: psa@speechpathologyaustralia. org.au When setting up a business it is important to comply with all relevant legislation, standards and procedures. SPA’s information about Small Business Resources contains information about Safework Australia, Fairwork Australia, the Australia Government Business portal and supports available from individual state and territory business organisations. See: www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au > Resources for Speech Pathologists > Professional Resources Promotional, marketing and advertising materials should be accurate, objective and based on clincial evidence. Advertising your business is important; however, as you develop your website, advertise your business through social media channels and use other forms of advertising, make sure you review SPA’s advertising resources including the Code of Ethics- Adverting Policy, examples of ethical advertising and a practical self-audit tool: www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au > Ethics > Advertising If you have been an employee or contractor in a private practice prior to starting your own practice, then it is important to avoid conflict of interest and conduct a private practice in competition with an employer without appropriate disclosures or requests. See SPA’s FAQs about

The Code of Ethics 2020 reflects the changing face of service delivery in the speech pathology profession and the increasing number of members who now work in private practice. When running a business, either as sole provider or when engaging staff, there are sections in the Code that provide members working in private practice with explicit guidance to ensure ethical practice underpins decision making. Below is reference to some of the key standards in the updated Code and resources the Association has available for members to support the work being carried out in the private sector. All private providers need to ensure you have access to appropriate supervision and support both for yourself and any staff. Supervision ensures you are supported and engaged in critical reflection about your practice and that your work is competent, and any continuing professional development needs are discussed and made provision for during a specific time frame. In addition to supervision of clincial skills, you may also want to engage with supports to develop your business skills. See the Association’s information about supervision that also includes links to SPA’s Supervision Register: www. speechpathologyaustralia.org.au > Members > Clinical Supervision . Members can also contact Nate Cornish-Raley, SPA’s Professional Support Advisor for

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Speak Out | October 2020