Professional Standards

Code of Conduct

Our commitment to ethical behaviour, professional integrity, and a respectful environment for all NHSCC members and stakeholders.

Effective: January 1, 2024·Last Updated: February 1, 2026

1. Purpose & Scope

The NHSCC Code of Conduct establishes the professional and ethical standards expected of every individual who participates in the NHSCC community. This Code applies to all members, event attendees, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, committee members, and anyone who engages with NHSCC through online or offline channels.

NHSCC is built on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. This Code ensures that every interaction upholds these values and contributes to a safe, productive, and inclusive environment for healthcare supply chain professionals across India.

2. Professional Integrity

Members are expected to conduct themselves with honesty, transparency, and professionalism:

  • Accurate Representation: Do not misrepresent your credentials, title, affiliation, or experience. Your NHSCC profile must reflect your actual professional standing.
  • Honest Communication: Share information and opinions truthfully. Do not fabricate statistics, case studies, or outcomes.
  • Transparency: Disclose material interests, affiliations, or potential biases when participating in panels, roundtables, or content creation.

3. Respect & Inclusivity

NHSCC fosters an inclusive community where every member feels valued, regardless of gender, religion, caste, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or seniority.

  • Zero Tolerance for Harassment: Any form of harassment, bullying, or discriminatory behaviour is strictly prohibited.
  • Inclusive Language: Use respectful language. Avoid stereotypes, derogatory terms, or marginalising language.
  • Active Listening: Respect diverse perspectives and give space for all voices to be heard.

4. Confidentiality

Members frequently share sensitive data and strategic insights during NHSCC forums. Respecting this trust is fundamental:

  • Chatham House Rule: All roundtables operate under the Chatham House Rule. Share learnings but do not attribute statements to specific individuals or organizations.
  • Member Data: Do not share, sell, or misuse fellow members' contact information or data obtained through NHSCC.
  • Proprietary Information: Respect trade secrets, pricing data, and commercially sensitive information shared during activities.

5. Ethical Business Practices

NHSCC members must uphold the highest standards of business ethics:

  • Anti-Corruption: No bribes, kickbacks, or improper inducements in connection with NHSCC activities.
  • No Unauthorized Solicitation: Do not use NHSCC for unsolicited commercial solicitation without explicit permission.
  • Fair Competition: Do not use NHSCC for anti-competitive agreements, price-fixing, or market allocation.
  • Conflict of Interest: Declare conflicts promptly, especially in committees or vendor evaluation discussions.

6. Intellectual Property

Respect for intellectual property is essential:

  • Do not reproduce or claim ownership of presentations, frameworks, or research shared by others without attribution and permission.
  • Ensure content you share at events does not infringe on third-party intellectual property.
  • Do not use the NHSCC name, logo, or content for external purposes without written authorization.

7. Event Conduct

NHSCC events are professional gatherings. All attendees must:

  • Maintain professional behaviour throughout all sessions and social events.
  • Respect speakers, moderators, and organizers. Do not interrupt or monopolize discussions.
  • Follow venue rules, safety guidelines, and organizer instructions.
  • Respect photography and recording policies. Do not record without permission.

8. Online & Digital Conduct

NHSCC digital channels are extensions of our professional community:

  • Communicate respectfully. Disagreement is welcome; personal attacks are not.
  • No spam, unsolicited advertisements, or self-promotion unless permitted.
  • No offensive, obscene, or inflammatory content.
  • Protect others' privacy. Do not share screenshots or personal information without consent.

9. Reporting & Enforcement

NHSCC takes violations seriously:

  • How to Report: Contact ethics@nhscc.in or any council member. All reports are strictly confidential.
  • Acknowledgment: Reports acknowledged within 48 hours.
  • Investigation: Impartial review within 15 business days. Both parties may present their perspective.
  • Sanctions: Verbal warning, written warning, temporary suspension, or permanent expulsion depending on severity.
  • Appeal: Written appeal within 30 days to the NHSCC Executive Committee.
  • No Retaliation: Retaliation against good-faith reporters is strictly prohibited.

10. Acknowledgment

By registering as an NHSCC member or participating in any activity, you agree to abide by this Code. It is reviewed annually and may be updated. Material changes are communicated via email; continued participation constitutes acceptance.

Questions: ethics@nhscc.in or Contact Page.