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Our Code

All members of the AAP adhere to our code of ethics to demonstrate and promote ethical standards and practices in the field of substance abuse treatment.

CODE OF ETHICS

Whereas a major goal of the Association of Alcoholism & Addictions Programs in Washington State is to demonstrate and promote ethical standards and practices in the provision of chemical dependency treatment, member organizations agree to abide by the following principles:

Treatment shall reflect adherence to the following accepted philosophy:

  • Alcoholism and other drug addiction is a primary, diagnosable, treatable disease for which abstinence is the foundation
    for recovery.
  • Alcoholism and other drug addiction is not a mental disorder, nor is it a matter of morals, intellect or willpower.
  • A person with alcoholism or other drug addiction can never return to the use of alcohol or other mood-altering chemicals
    without adverse effects.
  • A return to drinking or drug use during recovery is viewed as a sign of relapse and not an indication of failure of the
    individual or program.
  • Every effort should be made to include the family and significant others in treatment.
  • Treatment should encourage involvement with 12-step or other abstinence-based self-help groups during and after
    completion of professional treatment.
  • Treatment will be offered only in discrete setting under the supervision of knowledgeable chemical dependency
    professionals.
  • Members must not utilize any form of false or misleading advertising, must not exploit patients and/or families, and must
    not engage in competitive practices that are predatory or destructive to a collaborative marketplace
  • There shall be no personal or financial exploitation of patients.
  • There shall be no financial exploitation of third-party payers.
  • Each organization shall conscientiously assess its own role and limitations in consideration of the recovery of the patient and
    family, and it shall refer to other services and professionals according to the best interests of the patient and family.
  • Treatment organizations will not advertise their services in a manner that implies or expresses that recovery is simple or
    effortless and will not make negative reference to other treatment modalities or programs.
  • Respect for the integrity and interests of other member organizations shall be preserved, and suspected violation of this Code
    of Ethics by another member shall be handled in the manner set forth in the bylaws.

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