WEEK 4

Week 4

Week 4

a- This system of inquiry paper will be developed from the Code of Conduct which serves as the code of ethics for Kindred Healthcare, Inc. The 24 page document demonstrates a steadfast process throughout a company that operates more than 80 long-term care hospitals in 24 states, and 242 skilled nursing facilities in 28 states (About Kindred Healthcare, 2007). The system of inquiry paper will demonstrate how the document and the company's values and Vision Statement's are allied. The basic framework of why, how, when, and for whom the document will be used will be developed throughout the paper. Kindred Healthcare, Inc. has a responsibility to provide guidance to employees on how to perform job responsibilities ethically and legally in order to ensure the highest degree of responsible company behavior.

Why is The Code of Conduct Used?A system of inquiry or Code of Conduct serves as a document that clarifies the responsibilities of an employee of the company that are considered acceptable by the company. Employees who follow the standards in the Code allow for growth and prosperity of the company in the future. The code is used to evaluate decision-making, problem-solving, and the behavior in a business setting, In order to make sound ethical decisions within the company there are practiced methods discussed in the Code of Conduct for exploring the ethical aspects of a decision and weighing the considerations that may impact the choice for a course of action.

All employees within the company are responsible for reviewing the Code of Conduct as a commitment that they will conduct all aspects of their job in an ethical and legal manner. Employees are required to sign a receipt acknowledging having read and comprehended the company's Code of Conduct during orientation with the company. The Code of Conduct is also available for reference throughout the year on the company's website.

Employees have access to several resources to assist them with the decision-making and problem-solving process. These resources include their supervisor or manager, facility CEO/Administrator, local human resources manager, hospital division human resources contact number, corporate human resources contact number, utilization of open door policy, a toll free compliance hotline number, and a secure website if anonymity is an issue. No employee should have to be fearful of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in violation of the Code of Conduct and the questionable conduct should be reported promptly through the proper channels. The Code of Conduct encourages employees to contact immediate supervisors and, if necessary, to proceed up the chain of command to reach an acceptable solution.

How is The Code of Conduct Used?Kindred Healthcare, Inc. has over 51,000 employees in facilities and offices throughout 28 states. The most efficient method for administering the Code of Conduct is through an employees' initial orientation with the company. At this time each employee receives a Code of Conduct handbook with an introduction from the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company. There is an attachment at the end of each handbook for the employee ...