Congressional Charter

The Institute of Medicine was established in 1970 by the National Academy of Sciences to secure the services of eminent members of appropriate professions in the examination of policy matters pertaining to the health of the public. The Institute acts under the responsibility given to the National Academy of Sciences by its congressional charter to be an adviser to the federal government and, upon its own initiative, to identify issues of medical care, research, and education. Dr. Harvey V. Fineberg is president of the Institute of Medicine. 

Describe the foundations for the Red Cross work American Red Cross Congressional Charter, the fundamental principles of the Red Cross, and Red Crescent Movement. 

The Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies (American Red Cross, 2007a). The agency organizes and provides services consistent with its Congressional Charter and the principles of the international Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (see Figure 4.1). 

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