Compliance & Ethics Policy
Corporate Compliance
Purpose: Ridgewood PCH INC. is committed to conducting all business activities in strict adherence to federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Our Corporate Compliance Program ensures ethical practices, legal compliance, and operational integrity across the organization.
Policy: Ridgewood PCH INC. maintains a comprehensive Corporate Compliance Program to ensure that all employees understand their responsibilities and act in accordance with legal and ethical standards. Through ongoing oversight and education, we strive to:
- Uphold and enhance service quality.
- Demonstrate a proactive commitment to legal compliance.
- Continuously revise and develop policies to strengthen adherence.
- Foster open communication with regulatory bodies.
- Empower staff to prevent, detect, and report non-compliant conduct.
- Establish clear mechanisms for addressing compliance concerns.
- Ensure employees and contractors uphold the highest standards of ethical behavior.
Corporate Compliance Oversight: Compliance is overseen by Mrs. Dominica Aladi-Ogbuagu, Corporate Compliance Officer, who is available for guidance at 678-472-4358. All staff members will receive annual corporate compliance training to reinforce knowledge and accountability.
Code of Ethics Policy
Purpose: The Code of Ethics defines the values and standards guiding Ridgewood PCH INC.’s operations, ensuring ethical and professional conduct across all roles.
Policy: All full-time and part-time employees and contractors are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ethical behavior in their duties.
Ethical Standards
- Professional Conduct & Respect: Staff must maintain a positive, respectful environment, adhering to the organization’s values. Discrimination or harassment based on culture, age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, developmental disability, language, or socioeconomic status is strictly prohibited.
- Confidentiality & Privacy: Employees must safeguard confidential information and only share details with authorized individuals. This obligation applies both during and after employment with Ridgewood PCH INC.
By committing to these ethical standards, Ridgewood PCH INC. fosters a culture of trust, professionalism, and accountability in its operations.
Allegations, Compliance, and Ethical Responsibilities
Incident Reporting
Any staff member witnessing abuse, neglect, or inappropriate conduct involving an individual under Ridgewood PCH INC.’s care must immediately report the incident to their supervisor. The agency is legally required to notify the Director, Georgia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), Department of Community Health, local law enforcement, and the Support Coordinator within 24 hours upon awareness or reasonable suspicion.
Stewardship & Ethical Governance
Staff members hold fiduciary responsibility to ensure the ethical and responsible use of resources. They must actively prevent waste, fraud, and abuse of power in all aspects of their duties.
Education & Transparency
Employees are expected to:
- Adhere to the Code of Ethical Conduct
- Report violations promptly and without fear of reprisals
- Ensure allegations are addressed fairly and efficiently
Investigations & Compliance Reporting
Ridgewood PCH INC. will investigate critical incidents and ensure timely reporting:
- All reportable incidents submitted to DBHDD within 24 hours
- Deaths reported within 2 hours
- Investigations concluded within 30 days with a final report to the Investigations Section
Conflict of Interest & Professional Boundaries
To protect integrity, staff must disclose any financial or personal interests that could impact Ridgewood PCH INC.’s operations. Staff are prohibited from:
- Working directly with family members unless safeguards are in place
- Accepting gifts, money, or gratuities from individuals, families, or guardians
- Engaging in intimate or sexual relationships with individuals under Ridgewood PCH INC.’s care
Community Partnerships & Service Provision
Employees are expected to foster honest, fair relationships with business and community partners, ensuring ethical marketing and respectful service provision to diverse individuals. Ridgewood PCH INC. remains committed to responsive, high-quality care while adhering to legislative and policy standards.
Ethical Standards & Business Conduct Policy
Commitment to Integrity
Ridgewood PCH INC. upholds uncompromising ethical standards in all business operations, ensuring legal compliance and fairness over financial or strategic advantages. Employees involved in proposals, bid preparations, or contract negotiations must ensure accuracy and transparency in all representations. False statements, misleading claims, or unethical practices are strictly prohibited and subject to disciplinary action, including termination.
Marketing, Fundraising & Public Communication
Ridgewood PCH INC. commits to honest and accurate representation in marketing and promotional efforts. Employees must:
- Avoid misleading or exaggerated claims in advertising, fundraising, and business promotions.
- Refrain from making disparaging remarks about competitors.
- Ensure public statements align with the organization’s official stance and protect its reputation.
Legal Compliance & Confidentiality
Employees must cooperate fully with legal proceedings while upholding solicitor-client privilege. Confidential legal communications must not be shared externally without authorization from the Director.
Professional Boundaries & Ethical Decision-Making
Maintaining professional boundaries is essential to safeguarding individuals’ welfare. Staff must:
- Adhere to agency policies and ethical guidelines in all interactions.
- Recognize ethical challenges proactively and engage in continuous reflection.
- Avoid certifying, witnessing, or notarizing documents for individuals or their representatives.
Responsibility & Workplace Conduct
Employees are expected to:
- Uphold Ridgewood PCH INC. values professionalism and respect.
- Prioritize individuals’ interests over personal gain, avoiding conflicts of interest.
- Respect diversity and advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities.
- Report ethical concerns to the Director, with escalation to the Advisory Board President if necessary.
Human Resource Commitment & Training
All staff must:
- Adhere to Human Resource Policies & Procedures to ensure compliance.
- Continuously develop their professional expertise and seek opportunities for growth.
Participate in the annual Code of Ethics training to reinforce best practices.