Earlier policy library. This page belongs to an earlier library of ASF policies. The current, approved governance set is the ASF Standards Package 2026 (GOV, OPS, QMS and EV documents). Where this page and the 2026 package differ, the 2026 package applies.
ASF Institutional Policy Manual · Aligned with PHIG, September 2026
Part of the ASF policy framework, aligned with the equivalent PHIG policy. To raise a concern: see the ASF Complaints and Reporting Channel.
Everything ASF publishes to the public — on its website, social media, or press releases — must be accurate, sourced, independent of commercial interests and safe to act on. Owner: Board Chair.
Standards for health content
- Evidence first: health claims are based on current evidence and cite their source; every number carries its source and date.
- Not medical advice: individual medical content carries a clear notice to consult a qualified professional.
- Corrections: errors are corrected promptly and visibly, with the date of correction.
- No harmful promotion: no advertising or favourable coverage of tobacco, nicotine, unproven treatments or products with safety concerns; supplement information follows the independent SupplementIndex methodology.
- Separation: paid or partner content is clearly labelled and never presented as independent editorial content.
- Dignity and privacy: images and stories of patients, children and vulnerable people follow Policies 9 and 16, with informed consent.
- Crisis communication: during outbreaks or emergencies, messages align with official public health guidance and are cleared by the the Board Chair before release.
Personal social media
Personnel may share ASF content and their professional views, but must not present personal opinions as ASF positions, disclose confidential information or engage in harassment or partisan campaigning under ASF’s name.
Spokespeople
Only the Chair, the the Board Chair or a person they designate speaks to the media on behalf of ASF.