03029 - Health Law

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students will be able to understand the concept of the right to health in its broad legal dimension; acquire knowledge of the organisation of the Italian National Health Service (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale – SSN) and the allocation of legislative and administrative competences between the State and the Regions; understand the organisation and delivery of healthcare services; become familiar with the legal framework governing the principal health professions; and understand the complex system of professional liability in the healthcare sector.

Course contents

The course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive, systematic, and reasoned overview of the topics covered by this teaching module.

In particular, lectures will examine and discuss the most significant legal aspects of the right to health and of the Italian National Health Service, with particular emphasis on the organisational, planning, and management dimensions of public healthcare.

The course pursues the dual objective of enabling students to develop a sound understanding of the constitutional dimension of the right to health, while also acquiring a solid foundation in the legislation governing healthcare services.

Particular attention will also be devoted to the diversity of the health professions, with specific reference to the nursing profession, as well as to the legal issues relating to professional education and training, professional competences, and professional liability.

Readings/Bibliography

C. Bottari, Manuale di legislazione sanitaria, Giappichelli, 2025.

Teaching methods

The course consists of face-to-face lectures complemented by interactive discussions and debates on topics of particular interest to students.

Assessment methods

Assessment consists of a written multiple-choice examination comprising 10 questions. The examination is administered together with the assessments for the other teaching modules included in the Integrated Course Advanced Topics in Hospital Care.

The examination covers the topics described in the section "Course Contents".

 

Bachelor's / Master's Dissertation

The assignment of the final dissertation is subject to a formal request by the student (an email to the course instructor is sufficient), followed by an individual meeting.

Dissertation topics are normally assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to the maximum number of supervisees established by the Chair. Consideration is also given to the student's academic progress, attendance, and demonstrated interest in the subject.

A complete draft of the dissertation must be submitted to the course instructor at least one month before the scheduled defence.

Teaching tools

Students with specific learning disorders (SLDs) or temporary or permanent disabilities are encouraged to contact the University's dedicated support service (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it/per-studenti ) as early as possible in order to agree on appropriate accommodations. Requests must be submitted to the course instructor at least 15 days before the examination date. The instructor will assess the appropriateness of the requested accommodations in light of the intended learning outcomes.

Office hours

See the website of Carlo Bottari