Comments on current statutory solutions in the penal and legal protection over medical professionals as public officers

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of the legal status of the penal and legal protection over medical professionals with particular emphasis on the profession of physician, paramedic, nurse and midwife. The article discusses case law regarding attacks on medical personnel from patients and other persons during first aid procedures. The aim of the article is also to explain the basic concepts related to prohibited acts, as specified in the laws governing medical professions. Another theme is the latest change in the medical legal system, which involves solutions applicable as of 26/06/2018 aimed at increasing the protection of medical employees. Subsequent sections of this paper include postulates of rationalizing and simplifying this protection as it is currently overcomplicated, which makes it difficult to identify the features of a crime. What is more, many situations are, in fact, inadequately protected.