Code of Ethics

Code of Ethics
Music-Thanatology Association International

Preamble

Definition of Music-Thanatology

Music-thanatology is a professional field within the broader subspecialty of palliative care. It is a musical/clinical modality that unites music and medicine in end of life care. Fundamental to music-thanatology is an underlying recognition that the experience of dying is a sacred, spiritual process within which exists the possibility for a peaceful death. With roots in palliative care that pre-date modern medicine, music-thanatology addresses physical, emotional or spiritual suffering that might adversely impact the dying process and impede a peaceful death. Central to the field itself is the healing potential of sound and the intention of deepest respect in music played prescriptively.

Definition of Music-Thanatologist

The music-thanatologist utilizes harp and voice in a vigil setting to lovingly serve the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the dying and their loved ones with prescriptive music. Music-thanatologists believe beauty, dignity and reverence are central to humanity and are essential aspects of responding to the pain and suffering associated with the process of dying. Certification in this profession requires mastery of six areas of competency: professional, personal, musical, medical, clinical and thanatological.

Definition of Music-Thanatology Association International

The Music-Thanatology Association International (MTAI) is a professional association and certifying body for the field of music-thanatology. The MTAI provides continuing education and professional networking opportunities for music-thanatologists, as well as a certification process for qualified applicants. The membership of the MTAI is made up of professional music-thanatologists, students, and friends/supporters. The members are actively engaged in and impact the field of music-thanatology. The MTAI offers an annual conference to members during which the leadership gathers the shared wisdom of the members and sets the direction for continued development of the field.


Purpose and Content of this Code of Ethics

This Code of Ethics is designed to identify the ideals and ethical principles of the profession as promulgated by the MTAI:

~ Respect for All Persons
~ Responsible Practice and Accountability
~ Collaboration
~ Responsible Leadership The Code of Ethics enables the association to clarify for current and future members, and for those served by members, the nature of the ideals and ethical principles held in common by its members. As the Code of Ethics of the association, this document establishes guidelines that define the ethical behavior of association members. All members are required to adhere to this Code of Ethics.

Ideals and Ethical Principles

Respect for All Persons

Music-thanatologists respect the rights and dignity of all persons by respecting differences among people without discrimination on the basis of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, nationality, religious affiliation, beliefs, financial condition or social status. In so doing we will:

~ Show respect for the unique beliefs and cultures of all people when applying musical thematic material with harp and voice.

~ Commit to continued personal inner development and spiritual growth in order to be at ease with the pain, suffering and grief that may surround people who are dying and their loved ones.

~ Act with integrity and strive to be fully present to our patients and their families, holding the concept of service at the forefront of our intentions.

~ Practice personal self-care.

~ Respect the distinction between music-thanatologists and those who are licensed or certified to provide other therapeutic music.

Responsible Practice and Accountability

Music-thanatologists possess the knowledge, skills and experience essential to offering a music-thanatology vigil. As music-thanatologists, we assess our own behavior and performance in the light of professional and ethical standards. In so doing we will:

~ Continue to develop the skills required to provide music-thanatology vigils.

~ Build and utilize peer relationships to maintain continued clinical and musical growth as well as personal support.

~ Represent the MTAI responsibly and accurately in all written and verbal interactions.

~ Maintain professional boundaries in multiple settings, both work and public.

~ Practice accepted healthcare protocol and etiquette contained in each facility's policies, structure and procedures.

~ Recognize the trust and vulnerability of the patient and their family and accept the moral obligation not to abuse that trust. In particular, we will take care to avoid any form of spiritual, emotional, or sexual exploitation

~ Maintain patient rights and confidentiality within HIPAA rules.

Collaboration

Music-thanatologists collaborate with colleagues and other members of the healthcare team involved with patient care. In so doing we will:

~ Obtain and make referrals following appropriate protocols.

~ Provide communication and documentation as required in clinical settings.

~ Promote interdisciplinary care of patients by respecting the roles and responsibilities of other healthcare professionals and working together with them as a healing team.

Responsible Leadership

Music-thanatologists are involved in the network of community, social and professional organizations that support and promote good end of life care. In so doing we will:

~ Promote a holistic understanding of the dying process.

~ Have sound working knowledge of palliative medicine and hospice care, and participate in fostering understanding of these areas of healthcare among our colleagues and professional associates.

~ Be aware of end of life ethical issues that may arise and understand how to respond to as well as make appropriate referrals within the system in which we work.

~ Promote, strengthen and educate about the field of music-thanatology with professional integrity.

~ Support further growth of the field of music-thanatology.

Created: July 31, 2010     Last updated: July 31, 2010