THE MEDICAL CODE OF ETHICS
DECLARATION OF GENEVA, 1948
At the time of being admitted as a member of the medical profession I solemnly pledge myself to consecrate my life to the service of humanity: I will give to my teachers the respect and gratitude which is their due; I will practise my profession with conscience and dignity; The health and life of my patient will be my first consideration; I will respect the secrets which are confined in me; I will maintain by all means in my power, the honour and noble traditions of the medical profession; My colleagues will be my brothers: I will not permit considerations of religion, nationality, race, party politics or social standing to intervene between my duty and my patient; I will maintain the utmost respect for human life, from the time of its conception, even under threat, I will not use my medical knowledge contrary to the laws of humanity; I make these promises solemnly, freely and upon my honour.
The second General Assembly of the World Medical Association 1948