Privacy Policy

This entire policy, encompassing the Statement of Principles and its Interpretations, is designed to serve as a Code of Ethics for the HEalth Education Research Foundation (HERF).

HERF is a profoundly ethical organization committed to adhering to all relevant laws governing its operations. Additionally, HERF recognizes its responsibility to its investors and other stakeholders to ensure that the conduct of its officers, directors, and employees maintains the highest standards of integrity and transparency. Therefore, HERF has adopted the following Statement of Principles (SOP).

Health Education Research Foundation Statement of Principles:

1. We are a deeply ethical organization and abide by all applicable laws both in their letter and spirit, even in circumstances where others may deviate. This Principle applies to the behavior of all directors, officers, employees, and consultants of HERF and its affiliated entities worldwide.
2. We cultivate an ethical and compassionate workforce dedicated to enhancing the well-being of their communities. We respect diversity and celebrate its positive impact on the organization.
3. We prioritize our stakeholders, including hospitals and healthcare systems, donors, and recipients, by understanding their needs and establishing a secure platform that serves the interests of all parties involved.
4. We are resolute in ensuring that all financial transactions facilitated through our secure platform have verifiable sources and destinations, under the full supervision of authorized HERF personnel. Our aim is to prevent any form of fraud, money laundering, suspicious activities related to terrorism, or any other unlawful conduct.
5. We have clearly defined the requirements for Patient Profiles (see Interpretations, number 7 below).
6. We seek to foster honest, trusting, and respectful business relationships with our customers based on integrity and mutual benefit.
7. We uphold the privacy and inherent dignity of all individuals. We treat everyone with dignity and respect and strive to maintain a work environment consistent with this Principle, free from harassment of any kind.
8. We do not discriminate in employment practices based on race, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other factors. All qualified individuals are treated equally.
9. We conduct our business in compliance with the laws of the jurisdictions in which we operate, as well as antitrust and similar regulations applicable globally. We promote fair competition in the market for our products.
10. We seek employees who embody honesty, integrity, diligence, and a firm commitment to upholding our Statement of Principles and contributing to our success, both financially and otherwise.
11. Within the diverse social contexts in which we operate, we strive to enhance the overall well-being of our employees as individuals and to influence positive social change, whether within the scope of our operations or, where feasible, more broadly.
12. We prefer to engage in business with companies, agents, and vendors that endorse the Statement of Principles of the HEalth Education Research Foundation. 

Appointment of Ethics Officer:

The SOP is overseen by HERF's Ethics Officer, appointed by and reporting to the Chief Executive Officer. The Ethics Officer is responsible for administering and implementing the SOP, including providing periodic training to employees on its interpretation. They are authorized to engage professional advisors to support these efforts, with HERF committing adequate resources to facilitate their objectives. The Ethics Officer will deliver an annual report to the Board of Directors regarding the SOP.

Interpretations:

HERF interprets the SOP to prohibit and/or mandate certain standards of conduct. Selected interpretations include:

Conflicts of Interest; Prohibition of Self-Dealing

Political Contributions

Bribes, Kickbacks, Under-the-Table Payments, Rebates, Discounts, and Other Promotional Activities

Irregular Accounting Practices

Confidentiality

Protection and Proper Use of Company Assets

Patient Profiles and Restrictions

General Rules:

Applicability of Policy

Disclosure of Knowledge of a Prohibited Act

Questions Relating to Policy

Administration

Disciplinary Action

Note: The Health Education Research Foundation operates independently and is not affiliated with any company, either domestically or internationally.