Communication and Compliance

Open communication is at the core of Baxter’s commitment to integrity. The organization offers numerous channels to educate and counsel employees as well as confidential avenues to report alleged violations of law and policy, which it investigates promptly and reports to senior management as appropriate. Managers are responsible for maintaining an environment that enables employees to safely raise and discuss issues. Baxter encourages employees to seek guidance and report concerns through a number of formal channels (see graphic). Through these channels, Baxter prevents incidents from occurring and addresses issues when they do arise.

One such channel is the Baxter Ethics and Compliance Helpline, a telephone and Web resource available to employees and their families, suppliers, customers and other stakeholders. Callers can report an issue or seek guidance in their local language. Counselors are available in 150 languages, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

In 2011, 408 inquiries were logged into the Helpline system and addressed in a prompt, thorough and professional manner.

Not all these inquiries were reports of alleged misconduct or compliance in nature. In all cases, Baxter encourages employees to use the Helpline, COIC process and other channels to ask questions and seek advice. Items identified through these channels also help Ethics and Compliance personnel to identify key risks, develop appropriate training, and design and apply compliance assessment methodologies.