Medico-legal
Improving quality, safety and professionalism in practice. Everything you need to help you with clinical and legal challenges.
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07 August 2025
Psychologist fined $5000 for failing to give patient access to their clinical records
A psychologist was ordered to pay compensation and give a patient access to their records, after the Australian Information and Privacy Commissioner was unconvinced by multiple excuses including that the records were lost, the patient had stolen them, or that access would unreasonably impact privacy if disclosed in the course of the patient’s complaint to the regulator.
07 August 2025
The hidden cost of administration: patient privacy in practice
Everyday lapses in patient privacy can have serious consequences. From damaging patient trust to triggering legal action and reputational harm. The impact can be significant for you, your practice and your colleagues. This article highlights common breaches in healthcare and offers practical steps to protect patient information and reduce these risks.
06 August 2025
The real cost of a privacy breach
Privacy breaches carry real consequences. From fines and professional sanctions to media scrutiny and loss of employment, the impact can be serious for you, your practice and your colleagues. These real-world cases show what can go wrong and why it is important to understand your privacy obligations and equip yourself with the right information to make informed decisions and avoid these risks.
30 July 2025
Patient follow-up and recalls
Doctors are often unsure how far they need to go in following up patients for return appointments, review of test results and specialist referrals.
28 July 2025
Prescribing drugs of dependence
‘Drugs of dependence’ refers to a group of drugs with properties that make them addictive and create a high potential for misuse. Broadly, drugs of dependence include opioids, sedatives, steroids and stimulants. Most are classed under Schedule 8 of the Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Medicines and Poisons (Poisons Standard) and often referred to as S8s, or controlled medicines. When prescribed and used appropriately they can help to meet a patient’s therapeutic needs. However, these medicines present unique challenges for doctors and patients.
28 July 2025
Medicare FAQs
Not sure what to do when you are contacted by Medicare or the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing? Our medico-legal experts have created a guide for doctors and practices which includes FAQs and a suite of resources.
09 July 2025
Mandatory reporting: still a barrier to treatment for mental health
Despite changes to mandatory reporting obligations in 2018, many Australian doctors remain hesitant to seek treatment for mental health concerns, fearing they might be reported to the regulator. Dispelling this perception is vital to ensure doctors seek treatment when they need it.
29 June 2025
Historic case that set the standard for informed consent in Australia
This landmark Australian case clarified that doctors must inform patients about any material risks relevant to them.