Medicine, healthcare, pharmacy and the law

Abstract

鈥淟aws may generally be regarded as requirements for human conduct, applying to all persons within their jurisdiction, commanding what is right, prohibiting what is wrong, and imposing penalties for violations鈥�.1 In the law鈥檚 efforts at safeguarding patient safety, it has also generated fear of legal reprisal. However a good understanding of the rules and regulation that govern day-to-day practice, and awareness of accountability and professional responsibility intrinsic to the healthcare professions is critical to maintaining the high standard and regard to which these professions are held.