Low-value care is a significant challenge for the Australian healthcare system. Misunderstandings about medico-legal risk can contribute to defensive practice, leading to unnecessary tests and treatments that may not benefit patients or even cause harm.
This interactive module explores the connection between medico-legal risk and low-value care, using real-world case studies and practical examples to strengthen shared decision-making and support high-quality care.
Developed as part of the Better Care Everywhere Initiative , this module is part of a suite of resources aimed at supporting the health system reduce the delivery of unnecessary and low-value care.
View the learning outcomes.
Target audience: Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, allied health professionals and students involved in ordering tests and procedures.
Cost: Free
Time: This course has three 20-minute parts.
CPD points: Self-directed CPD - view details
Version: Version 1. Released October 2026.
Enrolment
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Learning outcomes
Click on the module title below to access the learning outcomes.
Part 1: Uncertainty
Upon completion of this activity you should be able to:
- Recognise personal reactions to clinical uncertainty and how this may influence clinical decision-making
- Understand external factors impacting responses to clinical uncertainty
- Differentiate between careful practice and defensive practice
- Explore the causes of defensive medicine and the different categories of low-value care.
Part 2: The Law
Upon completion of this activity you should be able to:
- Apply core medico-legal principles to clinical decision-making, including the duty to exercise reasonable care and the legal standard of reasonableness
- Recognise how cognitive biases, risk perceptions, and workplace culture can contribute to defensive practice and low-value care
- Evaluate the risks and consequences of unnecessary tests and procedures, and adopt strategies that promote high-value, patient-centred care while appropriately managing medico-legal risk.
Part 3: Communication
Upon completion of this activity you should be able to:
- Recognise the legal fundamentals of consent
- Identify common barriers to meaningful consent and the patient-centred consent practice that support informed decision-making
- Apply strategies and resources for time-efficient communication and improved decision-making
- Use communication strategies that help patients understand clinical reasoning, manage uncertainty, and set appropriate expectations for care and follow-up.
CPD points
Continuing professional development
Self-directed CPD
It is recommended that 1 CPD hour be recorded for the purposes of self-directed CPD