Code of Ethics: Maternal Support Practitioner (MSP)
Whom This Code Applies To:
The MSP is someone who has met all the requirements for certification as outlined by bebo mia inc. and has agreed to practice in accordance within the guidelines set out in the bebo mia inc.
MSP code of ethics
The MSP code of ethics describes the context for practice and the ethical principles that are expected to be adhered to. The code of ethics includes a description of the relationship between the MSP the person or persons who are being supported as well as other members, formal and informal, of the support team, the scope of MSP practice and the values that the MSP demonstrates in her/his daily practice.
Principle Guidelines for MSP Practice
The MSP practice is built upon four basic principle for providing support; accountability, integrity, respect and community. At the core of these is the ability of the MSP to establish a collaborative relationship with the person or persons who are being supported, regardless of the length of time in the relationship. In order to best facilitate this, the relationship must therefore be built upon these guiding principles.
The MSP also recognizes and respects the importance of other individuals in the life of the person who is being supported.
Accountability
The MSP is an independent contractor as well as a member of the bebo mia inc. brand. The MSP has completed the necessary academic requirements for certification and is committed to maintaining their professional development through continuing education, affiliation with relevant organizations and inter‐professional associations.
The MSP recognises that they are not called upon to make healthcare decisions as a function of providing support. They understand and accept that their scope of practice is restricted and limited to providing non‐therapeutic physical, emotional and educational support. The MSP may only support clients who are also under the care of a health care provider, such as an OB/GYN, GP or midwife. They may not support unassisted deliveries.
Advocacy is an important element of support but within the MSP scope of practice this is limited to advocacy for access to the essentials that the person/s being supported requires in order to make informed decisions. The MSP therefore does not advocate on behalf of the person/s being supported but rather supports that individuals ability to advocate for themselves. This advocacy support is achieved through the use of but not limited to; conversations around the wishes and expectations of the person/s being supported, creation of a birthing plan, relevant childbirth education and access to evidence based research and/or resources.
It is never in the scope of practice for a MSP to speak on behalf of the person/s they are supporting. The MSP does not provide or participate in any medical activities. The MSP does not perform or prescribe any therapeutic treatments or remedies. The MSP also does not criticize or demean the other members of the support team (formal or informal) who are involved with person/s whom they are supporting. Nor does the MSP question the veracity or validity of a procedure or treatment recommended by the other members of the support team (formal and informal) who are also involved with the person/s they are supporting.
The MSP at all times acts in the best interests of the person/s who is being supported.
The MSP provides support within a framework of shared accountability and recognises that their actions impact not only upon the person/s being supported but also upon the profession as a whole.
Integrity
The MSP does not misrepresent themselves either in their actions or their situation. They do not behave in a manner which misleads others or deliberately provokes misunderstanding. They maintain respectful and professional behaviour towards other members, both formal and informal, of the support team.
The MSP recognises and accepts that they are ultimately responsible for their own actions and refrain from indulging in any real or potential conflict of interest.
The MSP acknowledges responsibility for confidentiality regarding the information which the intimate nature of their work exposes them to. The MSP respects the rights of the person/s being supported and does not share personal and/or private information about them. The MSP also respects the privacy of the other members, both formal and informal members of the support team.
Respect
The MSP supports the choices made by the person/s whom they are supporting. This support includes ensuring that the person/s receiving support, have access to the most up to date, evidence based resources. The MSP does not impose their own beliefs or judgment on the choices made by the person/s who are being supported. Neither does the MSP allow their own beliefs and/or perspectives to interfere with the quality of support they provide.
In recognition of the diverse nature of person/s who request support, the MSP supports and
promotes awareness of diversity of needs and how these needs can be met. The MSP also practices and supports acceptance for diversity in lifestyle and perspectives.
The MSP endeavours to ensure that whenever and wherever possible, the person/s being supported, receives information and resources which are appropriate to their level of comprehension and in the language of their choice.
Community
The MSP recognises and supports the roles of other members, both informal and formal, of the support and health care team. The MSP works in adjunct to others providing professional support within their scope of practice. The MSP practices and promotes safe working habits which meet or exceed the highest industry standards. The MSP ensures that their own actions reflect current best practices and do not put anyone, including themselves, at risk.
The MSP maintains a commitment to professional development and regularly participates in activities which enhance skill level, knowledge and proficiency within the scope of practice.