HEALTH LAW
Health law is broad. It is the legal frameworks that govern the entire medical practice, professional ethics and obligation, and the rights of patients.
It’s intertwined with various legal areas, including tort law, contract law, and administrative law.
Lets see through some Areas of Health Law:
#INFORMED CONSENT
Both in & Out Patients must be fully informed about the risks, benefits, and alternatives of All/any medical procedures before consenting to them.
Importance: Informed consent is a legal right & requirement and helps protect patients’ autonomy and rights towards medical care of their choice.
#MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE
This occurs when a healthcare professional fails to provide the standard of care that a reasonable professional would offer, leading to patient harm.
Key Elements:
-Duty of care
-Breach of duty
-Causation
-Damages
#PATIENT’S RIGHT
Every Patient has an inherent right to privacy (HIPAA in the U.S.):
-Right to access medical records
-Right to refuse treatment
-Right to live or die
-Right to know the type of treatment to be administered
Patient Advocacy: Patients have the right to seek advocacy if they feel their rights are being violated.
#REGULATIONS & GOVERNING BODIES
Various organizations regulate healthcare practices, such as the FDA, CMS, and state medical boards.
The main function of these regulatory bodies may involve licensing requirements, standards for practice, and compliance with health and safety laws.
#MALPRACTISE INSURANCE
Purpose:
This is like an insurance card that protects Medical Professionals against claims of negligence or malpractice.
Health Law is a dynamic and has continue to evolve, playing a crucial role in ensuring patient rights, regulating healthcare practices, and addressing the complexities of modern medical technology. As healthcare continues to evolve, so too will the legal frameworks that govern it, necessitating ongoing education and adaptation for healthcare providers and legal professionals alike.
