Code of Conduct

Paragon Wound Care

Paragon Wound Care is dedicated to delivering high-quality patient-centered care with unwavering integrity, respect, and professionalism. This Code of Conduct serves as the building blocks for the expected behaviors, values, and standard of care that guide all Paragon employees, contractors, and affiliates of Paragon Wound Care. By embracing these principles, we foster an environment of trust, accountability, and ethical excellence, ensuring the well-being of our patients and the reputation of our organization.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to:

• Define the ethical and professional standards expected of everyone at Paragon Wound Care
• Promote a culture of honesty, compassion, and responsibility
• Guide decision-making in complex or ambiguous situations
• Comply with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations
• Safeguard the interests and dignity of patients, staff, and the broader community

Scope

This Code applies to all employees, contractors, volunteers, consultants, and anyone acting on behalf of Paragon Wound Care, regardless of role or location.

Core Values

• Integrity: We are honest and transparent in all our interactions and decisions.
• Compassion: We treat each individual with empathy, kindness, and respect.
• Excellence: We strive for the highest standards in clinical care, operations, and leadership.
• Accountability: We accept responsibility for our actions and their impact.
• Collaboration: We work together as a unified team to achieve our mission.

Ethical and Professional Standards

1. Patient Care and Rights

• Provide care that prioritizes the safety, dignity, and well-being of each patient.
• Respect patient autonomy and involve patients in decisions regarding their care.
• Protect patient privacy and confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and other regulations.
• Deliver services without discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, race, religion, gender, age, disability, or socioeconomic status.

2. Compliance with Laws and Regulations

• Follow all applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards governing healthcare practice.
• Participate in required training and maintain necessary certifications and licenses.
• Report any observed or suspected violations of law, policy, or ethical standards to appropriate authorities.

3. Workplace Conduct and Interpersonal Relationships

• Maintain a respectful, inclusive, and harassment-free workplace.
• Refrain from any form of discrimination, intimidation, bullying, or retaliation.
• Promote honest and constructive communication among all team members.
• Support colleagues and foster a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation.

4. Conflict of Interest

• Avoid situations where personal interests conflict, or appear to conflict, with the interests of Paragon Wound Care or its patients.
• Declare any potential conflicts of interest to management promptly.
• Do not engage in activities that could compromise professional judgment or the organization’s reputation.

5. Confidentiality and Data Protection

• Respect all confidential information relating to patients, staff, and the organization.
• Use patient and organizational data only for authorized purposes.
• Take reasonable steps to safeguard information against loss, theft, or unauthorized access.

6. Business Practices and Record Keeping

• Conduct all financial and business activities with transparency and accuracy.
• Maintain complete, truthful, and timely medical and business records.
• Do not engage in fraud, waste, or abuse of company or healthcare resources.
• Refuse any form of bribery, kickback, or improper benefit in relation to organizational activities.

7. Health, Safety, and the Environment

• Adhere to all workplace health and safety protocols.
• Promptly report accidents, unsafe practices, or hazards to management.
• Promote environmental responsibility and minimize waste or harmful impact on the environment.

8. Use of Property and Resources

• Use company property, assets, and resources responsibly and only for legitimate business purposes.
• Protect physical and intellectual property from misuse, damage, or theft.

9. Social Media and Public Communications

• Represent Paragon Wound Care professionally in all public statements, communications, and online activities.
• Do not disclose confidential or proprietary information on social media or to unauthorized individuals.
• Seek authorization before speaking on behalf of the organization in any public forum.

10. Reporting Violations and Non-Retaliation

• Report any suspected or actual violations of this Code, law, or policy to management, compliance officers, or through anonymous reporting channels.
• Paragon Wound Care prohibits retaliation against anyone who raises concerns or reports violations in good faith.
• All reported concerns will be investigated impartially and resolved appropriately.

Training and Implementation

All staff will receive training on this Code of Conduct upon onboarding and at regular intervals thereafter via Lunch and Learns. Ongoing education and awareness programs help reinforce the commitment to ethical behavior.

Disciplinary Action

Violations of this Code may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or association with Paragon Wound Care, and possible legal consequences.

Review and Updates

This Code of Conduct will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary to ensure ongoing effectiveness and alignment with legal, regulatory, and organizational changes. Employees will be notified of any significant updates or revisions.

Conclusion

Every member of the Paragon Wound Care team shares responsibility for upholding this Code of Conduct. By acting with integrity, compassion, and professionalism, we honor our mission to deliver outstanding wound care and foster a culture of trust, safety, and respect for all.