FOR1003 - Ethics, medicine and the law

Leader(s): Emeritus Professor L Waller

Offered

Clayton Full year 2009 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

The unit aims to help students become familiar with the tools and vocabulary of ethical discourse in medicine. A framework for this discourse is built, based on the four basic principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice. The elements which go to make up the Australian Legal System are covered as well as those particular areas of law relating to forensic medical practice, ie. consent, confidentiality and disclosure, issues at both the beginning and end of life.

Objectives

The aims of this unit are:

1. to develop the student's awareness and understanding of the ideas and issues in medical ethics so that in practice, the interests of their patients/clients are safeguarded;
2. to develop the student's knowledge and understanding of relevant areas of the law so that in practice their contribution to the justice system is optimal.

Assessment

Assignments / Essays (50%)
Presentations (25%)
Casebook Workbook (25%)