The starting point for ethical thinking is a coherent vision of the human person. With a strong awareness of healthcare as a relationship of trust between persons, this Code has been developed to assist those responsible for leading, managing and delivering the healing ministry. It seeks to show that there is no conflict between ethics at its best and most humane, n the one hand, and Catholic theological and moral teaching on the other.

The Code:
• Explores the religious and rational basis of a culture which affirms life and healing – a concern of Catholics and non-Catholics alike - and which promotes the common good;
• Identifies the key ethical questions in healthcare and proposes answers in a language that can be understood by all;
• Offers insights into the application of Church Doctrine as well as EU directives and other relevant national legislation in the area of healthcare;
• Invites reflection on the meaning and significance of health and of healthcare, as well as the appropriate goals of medical interventions as understood in the Catholic tradition.