CMDA Code of Conduct

The CMDA Code of Conduct applies to all levels of staff and volunteer leadership in our organization – from student leaders to trustees on the national board. Each leader fulfills a critical role in achieving our mission of “educating, encouraging and equipping Christian healthcare professionals to glorify God.” With these leadership opportunities come the responsibility to set an example in the way we lead our lives – conscious of behaviors and attitudes that may cause others to stumble – seeking, rather, to model the life of Christ. To that end, the following Code establishes our individual commitment to strive for a high standard of personal conduct as we represent Christ and CMDA. More important than the specific standards we may describe, our conduct should be constrained by our deep love of God and the ones He allows us to serve.

1. Statement of Faith, Doctrinal Statement, Mission, Vision and Core Values – Leaders must be Active Members in good standing within CMDA and agree with the CMDA Statement of Faith, Doctrinal Statement, Mission Statement, Vision Statement, and Core Values.
2. Integrity – Each CMDA leader is expected to demonstrate honesty and high ethical standards in all ministry, business, and personal dealings.
3. Being Above Reproach – CMDA leaders should consider their lifestyle choices in light of his/her role as a spiritual leader, in particular, how certain actions can be perceived by or influence both believers and non-believers. Some things that are areas of freedom in Christ may not be wise or considerate choices for leaders. Therefore, leaders should exercise discernment and cultural sensitivity, refraining from questionable activities when representing CMDA. For some examples, read 1 Timothy 3.
4. Support for CMDA Position Statements – The CMDA House of Representative and/or the Board of Trustees approve the official positions held by CMDA on ethical and scientific issues. While these positions are not binding on the membership, when serving in a CMDA capacity, leaders must agree to refrain from undermining these positions. This does not preclude leaders from seeking a change in these positions within the proper channels of CMDA.
5. Involvement in Political Activities – Tax laws applicable to non-profit organizations require that there be no direct or indirect endorsement of political candidates or campaigning when representing CMDA.
6. Spiritual Gifts – Leaders in CMDA should strive to use spiritual gifts as God intended and to refrain from using or promoting any spiritual gift in CMDA forums where there is a possibility for causing disruption or confusion.
7. Harassment – CMDA is committed to maintaining an environment in which all individuals treat others with dignity and respect and which is free from all forms of intimidation, exploitation and harassment, including sexual harassment. (The full Sexual Harassment Policy can be found in the CMDA Personnel Manual.)
8. Sexual Purity – CMDA leaders are expected to practice sexual intimacy only within the bond of marriage between one man and one woman. Unmarried leaders should lead pure and celibate lives.
9. Language – CMDA leaders should not use profane or suggestive language.
10. Consequences – Leaders in willful violation of the policies of CMDA are subject to disciplinary action including removal from leadership or membership. Leaders in disagreement with these policies should seek to resolve his/her disagreement, and resign if resolution is not possible.