Deakin University has established a new research unit for “Law, Health and Society”, which was recently launched with Russell Kennedy Consultant Michael Gorton AM as its guest speaker.
Michael was welcomed by the Head of the new unit, Associate Professor Neera Bhatia and was introduced by the Deakin Law School, Dean of Law, Professor Marilyn McMahon.
As part of his presentation, Michael noted the importance of a law school research unit which combined issues relating to law, health and community as all three are necessary to ensure good outcomes for the society in which we live.
Michael referred to some of his previous roles which have engaged all three of these elements, including as a Hospital Board Chair, Chair of the Health Regulator Ahpra, and his work in the IVF/Assisted Reproductive Technology area.
Particular reference was made to the landmark report conducted by Michael on behalf of the Victorian Government into Assisted Reproductive Technology in Victoria - “Independent Review of Assisted Reproductive Treatment (May 2019)”.
Michael noted that law and health both have the opportunity, for better or worse, to greatly affect the personal lives of so many in our community, not just in relation to IVF, but also health treatments, access to health, relationships, and clarifying rights and responsibilities of both patients and health professionals.
Michael said, “Health law has the potential to affect the most personal aspects of people’s lives, including how we live, at a time when we are most vulnerable, and in relation to the most intimate aspects of our lives. We rely on the honesty, trust, skill and discretion of our health professionals”.
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