Learning Outcomes:
Will have knowledge and a detailed understanding of the main aspects of medico-legal theory and practice and an understanding of the basic aspects of clinical risk management.
Ability to cogently listen, interpret, discuss and debate, vocally and in writing and research issue/s in relation to medico-legal issues within a healthcare setting.
Communicate effectively in writing, oral and visual presentation to be able to present ideas at all levels of a medical enterprise from lower staff to corporate management.
Using knowledge pertaining good recod keeping and data protection and freedom of information, apply skills that improve medical records, thus ensuring efficient medico-legal practice and patient communication.
Will specifically deal with areas of: clinical negligence, patient consent, medical records, confidentiality and privacy, medico-legal issues at the beginning and end of life, death reporting to the Coroner, courtroom skills, medico-legal issues of professional regulation and fitness to practice, medico-ethical aspects of medical practice.
Ability to ensure effective communication skills in the medical workplace in general, as between the doctor and patient and in other settings such as the courtroom when involved with or as an expert medical witness.
Use information technology and electronic sources of information in work, practice and presentation. Learn to think in terms of `integrated governance' and practical solutions to problems in healthcare with may lead to harm to patients, by working with course contributors who are in the professional fields of law, medicine and governance.
Indicative Module Content:
- Irish Legal System
- Professionalism
- Clinical Negligence and Reforms
- Clinical Records, Privacy, GDPR and Confidentiality
- Consent
- Medical Research Medical Ethics
- Professional Aspects of Litigation: Plaintiff and Defendant
- Regulation and Fitness to Practice
- Expert Evidence and a view from the Judiciary
- Introduction to Clinical Risk