Leader: Ms Lorraine Walker (Gippsland, Leongatha & Mildura) & Ms Debra Griffiths (Peninsula)

Offered

Gippsland Second semester 2008 (Day)
Leongatha Second semester 2008 (Day)
Mildura Second semester 2008 (Day)
Peninsula Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

The aim of this unit is to introduce students to the Australian legal system including the processes and institutions that impact on professional practice. Students will identify the law as it relates to the delivery of health services including professional standards and regulation, complaint mechanisms and relevant legal forums including the coroner's court. Students will be encouraged to explore the health professional's relationship and obligations owed to patients, patient families and professional colleagues in the various health care environments.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students are expected to be able to:

1. demonstrate knowledge of common law and statute law pertinent to health professional practice;
2. explain why the study of health law is an essential aspect of health professional practice;
3. demonstrate an awareness of the legal implications of actions taken in health professional practice;
4. analyse the legal implications of the health care professional's relationship with clients, their families and other health care providers;
5. identify strategies, which may provide assistance in resolving legal issues that arise in the various areas of health professional; and
6. discuss the significance of registration of professionals in the health care environment.

Assessment

Written assignment (Legal scenario 2000 - 2500 words): 40%
On-line (WebCT) Quizzes (2 x 10-15 minutes each) 10%
Exam: 40%

Contact hours

4 hours per week (2 hours lecture and 2 hour tutorial over 11 weeks)

Co-requisites

Must be enrolled in course code 0413, 0727, 1046, 2552, 3445, 3558, 3562, 3564 or 3892