What does the IMIA Code of Ethics primarily focus on?

The IMIA Code of Ethics primarily focuses on principles of equality and justice in the field of medical informatics. This code is designed to guide professionals in the ethical use of information and communication technologies in healthcare. By emphasizing equality, it addresses the need for equitable access to health information and the importance of treating all individuals fairly, regardless of their background or circumstances. The code promotes ethical practices that ensure all patients have equal rights to privacy, confidentiality, and informed decision-making about their health.

While technical safeguards for data are important in protecting patient information, they are more operational measures rather than ethical principles. Legal accountability in healthcare is a broader issue that deals with regulations and laws governing practices, while patient consent methods specifically address how healthcare providers obtain permission from patients. However, the foundation of these practices is rooted in the ethical principles of equality and justice that the IMIA Code emphasizes.