Upholding Integrity, Safety, and Professional Excellence

​Core Ethical Principles

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1. Professional Integrity

Members and accredited entities shall:

• Act honestly, responsibly, and transparently

• Represent qualifications and credentials accurately

• Avoid misleading claims or misrepresentation

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2. Patient Safety & Welfare

All professionals and institutions shall:

• Prioritize patient safety and well-being

• Practice within the scope of their training and competence

• Follow accepted safety protocols and clinical guidelines

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3. Compliance with Laws & Regulations

All stakeholders must:

• Comply with applicable local, national, and international laws

• Maintain valid licenses and registrations where required

• Respect healthcare regulations in their jurisdiction

ACAMS credentials do not replace statutory or legal requirements.

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4. Competence & Continuous Professional Development

Professionals are expected to:

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills

• Participate in ongoing education and training

• Engage in reflective and evidence-based practice

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5. Ethical Education & Training

Accredited institutions shall:

• Deliver accurate, ethical, and evidence-based education

• Ensure transparency in curriculum and assessments

• Avoid exaggerated claims regarding outcomes or recognition

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6. Transparency & Conflict of Interest

All individuals involved with ACAMS shall:

• Disclose any real or potential conflicts of interest

• Avoid undue influence in accreditation or certification decisions

• Act impartially and independently

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7. Respect, Non-Discrimination & Professional Conduct

All stakeholders must:

• Treat patients, colleagues, and learners with respect

• Avoid discrimination, harassment, or unethical behavior

• Maintain professional boundaries at all times

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8. Use of ACAMS Name, Logo & Credentials

ACAMS credentials:

• Must be used only as authorized

• Must not imply government recognition or legal licensing

• Must not be used in misleading advertising or promotion

Misuse may result in disciplinary action.

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9. Confidentiality & Data Protection

All parties shall:

• Protect confidential information

• Respect privacy and data protection laws

• Handle patient, institutional, and assessment data responsibly

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10. Accountability & Disciplinary Action

Violations of this Code may result in:

• Warning or corrective action

• Suspension or revocation of accreditation or certification

• Referral to appropriate authorities where required

All actions follow due process and fairness principles.

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Reporting Ethical Concerns

ACAMS provides formal mechanisms to report:

• Ethical misconduct

• Misuse of credentials

• Conflicts of interest

Reports are reviewed confidentially by the Ethics & Compliance Committee.

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Commitment to Ethical Excellence

By engaging with ACAMS, all stakeholders acknowledge and agree to uphold this Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct.

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Important Notice

This Code is not a substitute for local laws, regulations, or professional codes mandated by statutory authorities.