In healthcare, ethical collaboration among stakeholders is increasingly vital to ensure the delivery of high-quality patient care. The International Consensus Framework for Ethical Collaboration in Health offers a unique global platform that brings together key representatives across the health sector, including patients’ organisations, nurses, doctors, pharmacists, hospitals and the pharmaceutical industry. United by a commitment to ethical, transparent and responsible relationships, these organisations have created a shared structure to support cooperation across the healthcare ecosystem. First launched in 2014, the Framework was revised in 2024 and formally adopted in 2025 to mark its tenth anniversary, introducing a new principle on the responsible use of health data and technology in response to emerging challenges in digital health.
A Multi-Stakeholder Platform for Shared Ethical Values
The Consensus Framework is rooted in a shared vision of ethical partnership that prioritises patient well-being. It is not a common policy but rather a collective reference point supported by the individual policies of participating organisations, each offering detailed guidance tailored to their specific sector. The Framework’s five guiding principles outline a clear path for ethical collaboration: Put Patients First, Support Ethical Research and Innovation, Ensure Independence and Ethical Conduct, Promote Transparency and Accountability, and Uphold Responsible Use of Health Data and Technology. These principles are intended to complement existing national, regional and global guidelines, serving as a model for similar initiatives. As a living document, the Framework remains open to other stakeholders in the life sciences and healthcare sectors who are encouraged to endorse and contribute to its ongoing development.
The participating bodies—International Alliance of Patients’ Organizations (IAPO), International Council of Nurses (ICN), International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), World Medical Association (WMA) and International Hospital Federation (IHF)—reflect a broad and inclusive coalition. This diversity strengthens the Framework’s relevance and utility in different healthcare contexts, supporting a unified approach to ethical behaviour while respecting professional roles and maintaining independence. The platform reinforces the idea that cooperation should empower all parties involved, particularly patients and their caregivers, who must be informed and supported in making appropriate decisions for their health needs.
Maintaining Integrity and Independence Across Interactions
One of the core objectives of the Framework is to uphold independence and ensure that all interactions between stakeholders are ethical, appropriate and professional. This principle addresses specific areas such as gifts, sponsorships and affiliations, emphasising the importance of avoiding undue influence in decision-making. No financial benefit or incentive should compromise clinical judgement, and events or collaborations must prioritise the exchange of scientific and educational information. Sponsorships should be clearly defined, with the primary purpose of advancing knowledge in a balanced and objective way, and should be conducted in appropriate venues with modest hospitality.
The Framework also supports ethical research practices, advocating for clinical studies that serve legitimate scientific purposes and contribute to improving patient outcomes. Research participants must be fully informed of the nature and intent of studies, and compensation practices must avoid distorting the integrity of research results. Transparency in clinical research is equally important, with an emphasis on disclosing both positive and negative outcomes to build trust and support responsible innovation. These standards foster accountability while protecting the rights of individuals and the credibility of the scientific process.
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Transparency and accountability extend to financial relationships, including consultancy and service agreements, which should be based on legitimate purposes and formalised through written contracts. Remuneration must correspond to the services rendered and not be used as a tool for influence. Such clarity helps ensure that collaboration remains professional and in service of patient care.
Addressing the Digital Shift in Healthcare Ethics
In recognition of the growing significance of digital tools in healthcare, the Framework's 2025 revision introduced a new principle: Uphold Responsible Use of Health Data and Technology. This addition acknowledges the need for ethical standards to keep pace with innovation, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence and data-driven decision-making. The principle calls for responsible stewardship of data and technology, ensuring that their use respects individual autonomy, protects privacy and supports human rights.
Technologies should be transparent in their design, application and limitations, with safeguards to ensure professional oversight and human control. The responsible development and deployment of digital health tools must prioritise equity, eliminate bias and support the empowerment of patients and professionals alike. Partners are encouraged to work together across sectors to establish clear communication channels and promote mutual understanding as new opportunities arise. Continuous monitoring and validation of technologies are essential to maintain trust and ensure quality.
The principle of stewardship underscores the shared responsibility of all health stakeholders in managing sensitive data and powerful tools. By focusing on collaboration and ethical oversight, the Framework offers a blueprint for integrating digital transformation into healthcare without compromising core ethical values.
The International Consensus Framework for Ethical Collaboration in Health represents a significant step toward aligning global health stakeholders around a shared commitment to ethical behaviour. Its inclusive structure, grounded in five guiding principles and supported by diverse organisations, provides a practical and adaptable model for responsible cooperation. The addition of a principle on health data and technology illustrates its capacity to evolve in response to new challenges. As a living document, the Framework invites continued engagement and endorsement from across the health sector, offering a common foundation for ethical collaboration that prioritises patients, respects professional independence and embraces transparency. In an increasingly interconnected and technologically advanced healthcare environment, such a framework is vital for ensuring that collaboration continues to support the highest standards of care.
Source: International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations
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