For 167 years, the Code of Medical Ethics has been the authoritative guide on medical professionalism. First developed in 1847 by the American Medical Association and its Council on Ethical and Judicial Affairs, the Code undergoes regular revisions, and sets the standard for practicing principled medicine. Addressing the professional challenges faced by physicians today, the 2014-2015 edition of the Code of Medical Ethics presents guidance through more than 200 ethical opinions on topics ranging from professionalism in the use of social media, to genetic testing and counseling, to financial relationships with industry in continuing medical education. In addition to containing the nine Principles of Medical Ethics, this resource incorporates new and updated opinions, such as physician responsibilities for safe patient discharge from health care facilities, physician stewardship of health care resources, confidential care for minors and continuing medical education. An essential resource for physicians and other medical professionals, attorneys, and patients who confront the challenging issues and choices inherent in modern medicine, this resource has been increasingly referenced for legal advocacy, decision making in matters of health care law and litigation, and the development of health care policy.

This new edition of the Code of Medical Ethics is the culmination of an eight-year project to modernize the Code's ethical guidance for relevance, clarity and consistency. It represents the first comprehensive review of the Code in more than half a century. The features of this significantly revised edition will allow physicians to more easily incorporate the Code into their daily practice of medicine. The Code of Medical Ethics was adopted at the first AMA meeting in 1847. Much in medicine has changed in 169 years, but this founding document-the first uniform code of ethics of its kind-is still the basis of an explicit social contract between physicians and their patients. It is regularly cited as the medical profession's authoritative voice in legal opinions and in scholarly journals. It should be in every medical library and practice office.

D.--from the Introduction "Canadian Bulletin of Medical History"

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