Assignment 2: Doctors and the Law Section 1 in Canada

1. Several provincial provinces require mandatory reporting by doctor's in certain circumstances. Name the statue or legislation involved

a.) Was aware of a child being abused

b.) Knew a patient was driving a motor vehicle when he or she was not physically or emotionally able to drive

2. Briefly explain the "unwritten contract" that exists in a doctor/patient relationship

3. Explain the following terms as they pertain to a legal claim against a physician

a. Criminal Negligence

b. Negligence

c. Assault and Battery

4. To ensure patient confidentiality, name 3 important steps that a medical office assistant should always remember?

5. What medical records action should be taken each time a prescription is renewed or given by telephone?

6. What is the minimum length of time for maintaining medical records in the office and in the hospital? Why?

7. Briefly explain why it is necessary for a physician to retain medical records even after an individual ceases to be a patient of the physician?

8. What procedure should a medical office assistant follow if a patient asks to read their chart? Why?

9. What two legal documents served on a physician is necessary for patient records to be removed from an office?

10. How should the transfer of medical records from one doctor to another doctor be handled? Explain steps taken.

11. Explain the responsibility of the physician when a patient or the patients authorized agent requests the issuance of a report with respect to an examination or treatment.

12. What must a medical office assistant consider when acting as a witness to a patient signature of consent for treatment form?

13. When a patient has questions or concerns about a proposed procedure, which health care professional should provide the answers?

14. If a written error occurs in the patient record what is the legal protocol?

15. Name 2 minimum standards for maintaining medical records as set out by the Health Discipline Act?