Medical Law & Ethics

"The Law of Agency" - The doctor is principle; you are his agent.

The laws of a state or nation which deal with the enforcement of civil rights. Disputes between citizens; violation of rights by one person to another.

The relative incidence of disease.

Any written law.

The breaking or violating of a law, promise, contract or duty.

A person with the legal right to speak/act on behalf of another. The person is legally responsible for the actions and/or statements made by the agent on his behalf.

Unwritten law that is based on customs or court decisions.

To give consent by inference or action but without the express statement.

A civil wrong.

The cancellation or summoning back of a license/act.

A set of behavioral / moral standards formed by a particular group of profession which attempts to govern the actions or behavior of the members of that group.

A crime more serious than a misdemeanor.

The acceptance of one state's standards as at least equal to or superior to their own.

To give consent, having full knowledge of the matter at hand and the dangers that may be involved (written). *must sign*

State laws which govern the methods and requirements in gaining a license to practice medicine. Includes what a physician can practice in his field (specialty) and grounds for suspension or revocation of license.

Laws exempting physicians and other medical professionals from liability for treatment given in accident case.

A relationship in which one cannaot reveal information to given to him by another without the express consent (permission) of the other, unless required by law.

Law that pertain to crime and it's punishments.

Group established by the local medical society who hear and investigate complaints about physicians in the area regarding professional care or excessive fees charged.

Ten section code condensed by the AMA in 1957 to aid the physician to individually and collectively maintain a high level of ethical conduct.