The law of tort (or personal injury), is a complex area of the common law, where rules abound and exceptions seem endless. This module focuses on the role of the law of negligence in the medical context, essentially as a means of providing compensation to patients who have suffered a 'legally-recognised harm'. The criteria for a 'successful' negligence action will be considered, as well as the availability of different defences.

This course can be taken at any time and is offered throughout the year and you will have two weeks access for each module you book.

Detailed Description

Actions in negligence require a patient to prove a substantial number of fundamental elements, including who is liable, the existence of a duty of care, the establishment in law of a 'causative' fault, and the relevant standard by which a breach of duty should be judged. In many cases, the volume and quality of information provided to a patient, and how it affected his or her ability to consent, is a major and determining factor.

The course is taken online oin a self-access basis and offers a flexible way to study while maintaining work and personal commitments.