Medical Law, Ethics, and Compliance Flashcards
6 cards from real SCMA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Medical Law, Ethics, and Compliance flashcards as text
What is the statute of limitations in the context of medical malpractice?
Answer: The time period within which a legal action must be filed
The statute of limitations defines the legal deadline by which a malpractice lawsuit must be filed, varying by state.
Which of the following situations requires mandatory reporting by a medical assistant?
Answer: A patient disclosing domestic abuse
Suspected or disclosed domestic abuse is a mandatory reporting situation in most US states to protect victim safety.
What does the term 'respondeat superior' mean in a medical-legal context?
Answer: An employer is legally responsible for the actions of their employees performed within the scope of employment
Respondeat superior is a legal doctrine holding employers liable for negligent acts of employees performed during the course of their employment.
Which document gives a designated person authority to make healthcare decisions for a patient who is incapacitated?
Answer: A durable power of attorney for healthcare
A durable power of attorney for healthcare (healthcare proxy) designates a surrogate decision-maker when the patient cannot make their own medical decisions.
What is the minimum length of time medical records must typically be retained for adults under most US state regulations?
Answer: 7-10 years
Most US states require adult medical records to be retained for 7-10 years from the date of last treatment, though requirements vary by state.
What is the definition of negligence in a medical setting?
Answer: Failure to provide the standard of care that a reasonably prudent healthcare provider would deliver
Medical negligence occurs when a provider fails to meet the accepted standard of care, resulting in patient harm.
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