Key terms
Criminal law
A legal framework governing offenses against the state, including acts that may endanger public health or safety.
Assault and battery
Assault - Threatening behavior causing a patient to fear imminent harm.
Battery - Unlawful physical contact with a patient without consent.
Slander
Spoken defamation.
Scope of practice
The range of services and procedures a healthcare professional is authorized to perform as defined by law.
Denied payment
The rejection of a claim for reimbursement by an insurance provider, often due to policy terms.
Civil law
A legal domain addressing disputes among individuals or entities, often involving compensation for harm.
Invasion of privacy
Unauthorized access or disclosure of a patient’s personal health information.
Libel
Written defamation.
Ethics
Moral principles guiding healthcare providers' conduct and decision-making in patient care.
Termination of coverage
Ending a patient’s health insurance policy, which can affect access to care.
torts
Civil actions in which one party claims harm caused by another's actions, particularly in medical contexts.
False imprisonment
Unjustified confinement of a patient within a healthcare facility against their will.
Contract
A legally binding agreement between a healthcare provider and patient outlining the terms of treatment.
Power of Attorney
- A legal authorization allowing someone to make medical decisions on behalf of a patient.
Preexisting condition
A health issue that existed before a patient applies for insurance, potentially impacting coverage eligibility.
Malpractice
Professional negligence by a healthcare provider that results in injury or harm to a patient.
Abuse
Harmful treatment of a patient, which may be physical, emotional, or psychological.
Breach of contract
Failure to fulfill obligations stated in a patient-provider agreement.
Living will
A document outlining a patient’s preferences for medical treatment in scenarios where they cannot communicate.
Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA)
A law establishing standards for the treatment of patients in long-term care facilities, aimed at protecting resident rights.
Negligence
A breach of duty by a healthcare professional to provide care, leading to patient injury or adverse outcomes.
Defamation
Making false statements that damage a healthcare professional's reputation, impacting their practice.
Consent form
A document where a patient acknowledges understanding of and agrees to proposed medical treatment.
Denial of services
Refusal to provide medical treatment or care to a patient under specific circumstances.