Medico-legal
Improving quality, safety and professionalism in practice. Everything you need to help you with clinical and legal challenges.
Search Results
26 January 2026
Informed financial consent
Informed financial consent (IFC) is an essential part of your communication with your patient about any potential out-of-pocket expenses. It is important a patient is never surprised when they receive your bill.
04 January 2026
Observers: chaperones, protection and guidance
Having an observer present as a witness to a medical examination may benefit both you and the patient. It can be reassuring to a patient who is fearful, vulnerable or embarrassed.
21 December 2025
Completing a death certificate
The medical certificate of cause of death (MCCD) or death certificate is an important legal document. This factsheet and attached flow charts will outline the specific responsibilities for your state.
18 December 2025
Recommendations for patient communication via telephone and text message
The use of text messages is becoming routine in many clinical environments. This factsheet outlines best practice to ensure effective communication and that privacy is protected.
17 December 2025
Orthopaedic surgeon’s communication with treating doctors does not breach patient privacy
An orthopaedic surgeon did not breach a patient’s privacy by writing to their treating surgeon after the patient consulted them for a second opinion. The patient ought reasonably to have expected their treating team to be kept informed.
11 December 2025
Social media for doctors – keeping it professional
Social media offers hundreds of platforms, for both professional and personal uses. It has many benefits, but you should be aware of your professional and legal obligations to ensure you make the most of social media and avoid inadvertent breaches.
11 December 2025
It happened to me: the disciplinary process
In this series of podcasts, we talk with members about their experiences and discuss with them what they learnt. In this 30 minute interview a member involved in a disciplinary process describes its impact.
16 November 2025
Overview of Avant's claims and insights
Discover how Avant transforms medico-legal data into meaningful insights. This video explains how we analyse de-identified data from member claims and notifications to identify emerging risks, trends, and opportunities in healthcare. Learn about our classification systems, coding processes, and how these insights support safer clinical practice across Australia.