Ala. Admin. Code r. 473-X-5-.01
Ethics
Effective Oct 10, 2016New Rule: Filed July 20, 2001; effective August 24, 2001. Amended: Filed May 1, 2006; effective June 5, 2006. Amended: Filed July 17, 2008; effective August 21, 2008. Amended: Filed July 9, 2014; effective August 13, 2014. Amended: Filed August 26, 2016; effective October 10, 2016.Alabama Board of Home Medical Equipment
(1) Dishonorable, unethical or unprofessional conduct within the meaning of Section 34-14C-6(e)(9), Code of Ala. 1975, is interpreted to include, but is not limited to, the following acts or practices:
- (a) Practicing, condoning, facilitating or collaborating with any form of discrimination against any person or group on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, political belief, mental or physical handicap, or any other preference or personal characteristic, condition or status.
- (b) Failing to offer all facts regarding services or equipment to the consumer prior to administration of services (such as proper use and maintenance of equipment, warranty information, etc.). Patients and caregivers shall be informed of their rights and obligations regarding the sale, rental, and service of home medical equipment.
- (c) Failing to protect the privacy of patient information and disclosing such information without proper authorization, except as required by law.
- (d) Performing or allowing employees to perform professional services beyond their scope of practice and competency.
- (e) Failing to establish and maintain client records.
- (f) Intentional submission of fraudulent claims for services to any person or entity, including, but not limited to, health insurance companies or health service plans or third party payors.
- (g) Failure to abide by federal and local laws and regulations governing the home medical equipment industry.
- (h) Participating, directly or indirectly, with a source of patient referrals, in any arrangement which interferes with a consumer’s right to choose a home medical equipment supplier.
Author: Alabama Board of Home Medical Equipment
Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975, §34-14C1 thru §34-14C8, Act #2000-739, HB 419 of the 2000 Regular Session.
History: New Rule: Filed July 20, 2001; effective August 24, 2001. Amended: Filed May 1, 2006; effective June 5, 2006. Amended: Filed July 17, 2008; effective August 21, 2008. Amended: Filed July 9, 2014; effective August 13, 2014. Amended: Filed August 26, 2016; effective October 10, 2016.