This book examines some of the patterns in the rich tapestry of medical law. After a brief introduction to some leading bio-ethical principles, the book examines the interplay of different areas of law as they impact on medical practice, such as constitutional limitations on the delivery of health care and the impact of the law of contract, tort and crime. Particular emphasis is given to the thorny issue of consent to treatment. The second part of the book examines a diverse range of particular medico-legal problems including advance treatment directives, euthanasia, mental health law, and the law relating to patients suffering from AIDS. This book will be of use to anyone interested in the burgeoning field of medical law.
