ISTM Executive Board Approves Updated Policies Strengthening Governance, Ethics, and Accountability
The International Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM) Executive Board has recently approved several new and updated policies that strengthen governance, clarify responsibilities, and uphold the Society’s commitment to ethical and professional integrity.
As part of its ongoing good-governance practice, the Executive Board regularly reviews ISTM’s policies to ensure they remain current, relevant, and aligned with the needs of the Society and its members. This proactive process helps ensure that ISTM continues to model transparency, accountability, and excellence in association management.
Code of Ethics – A New Guiding Framework for ISTM Members
One of the most significant developments is the creation of an ISTM Code of Ethics, which defines the core values and guiding principles of the Society. While the Code of Conduct sets behavioral expectations for leaders and staff, the Code of Ethics serves as an aspirational document for all members, articulating the ideals that unite the global travel medicine community.
The Code of Ethics emphasizes professionalism, respect, and a shared responsibility to advance the practice of travel medicine ethically and with compassion. Together, the Code of Ethics and the Code of Conduct create a comprehensive ethical foundation—addressing both the “why” (values and principles) and the “how” (actions and accountability)—bringing ISTM in line with common standards across major professional and medical associations.
Code of Conduct
The updated Code of Conduct reinforces ISTM’s culture of respect, accountability, and inclusion. It modernizes language to reflect current expectations for professional behavior, strengthens guidance on handling miscommunications and complaints, and expands coverage to include professional staff alongside volunteer leaders.
This version replaces older program-specific sections and provides a concise, timeless framework that supports fairness, collaboration, and the Society’s global values.
Conflict of Interest and Confidentiality Policies
The revised Conflict of Interest (COI) Policy and new Confidentiality Policy reflect ISTM’s commitment to transparency and responsible stewardship.
The updated COI Policy expands its scope to include all directors, officers, committee members, staff, and contractors, with clearer definitions of financial interest, family relationships, and procedures for identifying and managing conflicts. It also introduces dual-leadership restrictions and stepwise enforcement aligned with IRS nonprofit governance and ACCME standards.
The new standalone Confidentiality Policy establishes clear expectations for handling ISTM’s sensitive and proprietary information. It applies to all leaders, staff, and volunteers, ensuring that confidential information—ranging from member data to strategic initiatives—is protected even after an individual’s service with ISTM concludes.
CTH® Examination Confidentiality and Candidate Conduct Policy
The Executive Board also approved a new Certificate in Travel Health™ (CTH®) Examination Confidentiality and Candidate Conduct Policy. This policy safeguards the integrity of ISTM’s certification program by defining candidate obligations, prohibited behaviors, and sanctions for violations. It establishes a clear appeals process and procedures for reporting misconduct, ensuring fairness and accountability throughout the examination process.
Travel and Reimbursement Policy
The revised Travel and Reimbursement Policy introduces a standardized and transparent structure for official ISTM travel. It clarifies allowable expenses, introduces airfare caps, defines per diem meal limits, and sets clear submission deadlines for reimbursements.
This streamlined version simplifies prior procedures while maintaining fairness, consistency, and strong fiscal responsibility across all ISTM-related travel.
These updates represent ISTM’s ongoing commitment to effective governance, ethical leadership, and operational transparency. By reviewing and refining its core policies, the Society ensures it continues to uphold the trust of its members, partners, and the broader global health community.
Members are encouraged to review the full versions of these located in the ISTM member portal under “ISTM Policies,” as they form the foundation for ISTM’s continued growth, professionalism, and collective impact in travel medicine.