Developing a code of ethics in health information management

Background: An effective strategy for promoting ethics within organisations is to establish clear guidelines that outline acceptable behaviours in different situations through a code of ethics. In the field of health information management (HIM), a code of ethics addresses various challenges, including privacy and information security. Objective: This study aimed to develop a code of ethics for health information management (HIM) professionals in Iran. Method: A mixed-methods study was conducted using a developmental approach. First, the code of ethics of the selected HIM and medical informatics associations was reviewed, and a comparative list of the codes of ethics prepared. An expert work group proposed the HIM code of ethics and then validated it using the Delphi technique. Results: After reviewing the code of ethics of the selected associations, we identified 70 statements. Following discussions and meetings, we prepared and approved 28 of these statements with input from 42 commentators using the Delphi technique. Notably, 46% of the code of ethics statements that aligned with respect for autonomy was deemed the most important principle. The principle of justice followed this at 32%, the principle of beneficence at 29%, and the principle of non-maleficence at 14%. Conclusion: Iran's current HIM laws and policies are inadequate. Developing a code of ethics could enhance patient rights, information preservation and collaboration with specialists. Implementing these codes of ethics nationally could promote ethical culture, transparency and quality. Establishing regulatory mechanisms, training for effective implementation and periodic revisions are important. Implications for health information practice: The proposed codes of ethics guide HIM professionals, enhancing public trust and assisting with ethical dilemmas as they manage systems integrating patient data, Artificial Intelligence, and Electronic Health Records.