International consensus framework for ethical collaboration in health
The International Consensus Framework for Ethical Collaboration in Health is the only global platform of its kind, routinely convening diverse health stakeholders in support of high-quality patient care.
The Consensus Framework is jointly supported by six leading bodies representing patients’ organizations, nurses, doctors and healthcare professionals, pharmacists, hospitals and the pharmaceutical industry — all united by a shared commitment to ensuring that relationships across the health ecosystem are grounded in ethical, transparent, and responsible decision-making.
First established in 2014, this Consensus Framework was revised in 2024 to coincide with its tenth anniversary and adopted in 2025 to include a new principle, on responsible use of health data and technology. This reflects a growing importance of digital health and artificial intelligence, and a need for ethics to evolve alongside innovation.
The individual policies of the participating organisations set out each organisation’s detailed commitments and offer more diverse and in depth information and guidance.
The Consensus Framework is a living document and is open to other stakeholders in life sciences and healthcare delivery, who are encouraged to endorse and contribute to its evolution.
Downloads
a joint statement BY:
Related news and resources
Groups representing patients, healthcare professionals and pharmaceutical industry author new principle on use of AI in healthcare
On 26 June 2025, six leading international organizations representing patients, physicians, pharmacists, nurses, hospitals, and the pharmaceutical industry have adopted the first joint ethical principle in the healthcare industry on the responsible use of health data and technology, including artificial intelligence.
Read more
Statement on the revision of the Declaration of Helsinki on ethical principles for medical research
On 19 October 2024, the World Medical Association (WMA) General Assembly unanimously voted to adopt a set of revisions to the Declaration of Helsinki on ethical principles for medical research.
Read moreInnovative pharmaceutical industry leaders reinforce ethics and business integrity in APEC economies and health sectors
IFPMA, with support and representation from industry leaders, joins stakeholders this week at the 11th Business Ethics for APEC SMEs Forum. This Forum – and the initiative on which it is based – supports the advancement of ethical business practices in the Asia-Pacific economies, with a focus on the health sector and wider health ecosystem....
Read more