Recognizing that the first obligation of the physician and the hospital is to safeguard each patient's life and health, representatives of the news media are expected to cooperate by refraining from any action or demand that might jeopardize the patient or interfere with the orderly business of the hospital.

On all matters of health or medical news, representatives of the news media are expected to make all qualified, designated contacts before proceeding to publication or broadcast. News media should not use the name of the attending physician without his or her expressed consent. This is done so that knowledge of a physician specialty will not lead to possible reckless speculation and/or unsubstantiated prognosis.

In the case of charges against a physician or hospital, the reporters are expected to make every effort to verify the charges and offer the accused an opportunity to reply before publication or broadcast.

When using tape recorders, especially over the telephone, the hospital spokesperson, patient or physician, should be so advised prior to any questions.

Reporters and photographers must obtain hospital permission before entering any areas of the hospital. Access to patient care areas will be arranged if the patient is willing and as soon as his or her condition permits. The hospital will assist by requesting written consent from the patient or a responsible family member fore any type of photography or interviewing is permitted.