A Master's Degree in Health Law is offered at many colleges and universities across the country. The degree is designed to provide health care and legal professionals with a more complete understanding of the guidelines and regulatory practices governing the health industry. The degree study equips those working in managed care with a detailed overview of the laws and regulations affecting everyday work decisions. The degree also provides law professionals with the medical background and training to adequately defend and pursue prosecution in matters related to managed care.
Most universities offering the health law degree work continuously to update the curriculum in an effort to stay current with the ever-changing health care field and the laws governing health. Programs of study might include a focus on anti-trust laws, food and drug or medical equipment laws, bioethics, health care financing laws and health insurance law in addition to hundreds of other areas of health-related law. Most programs offer at least a broad overview of all areas related to health law, and some institutions offer specialized training in particular areas. Students should be allowed to design some focus to their education and choose a specialization if desired.
Some degree programs call for the student to receive direct hands-on training. An individual with an intended career in law may be asked to work directly in the health care industry as part of their education and training. Working with patients and medical professionals provides valuable experience that can be put to use throughout one's career. Medical professionals might also be asked to spend time working within a law firm gaining valuable experience on the process of law.
Individuals planning to work or currently working in the health industry might pursue a study of health law to become better equipped for a hospital administration career or successful private practice. The health law degree provides the legal training needed to properly oversee all aspects of a legalized managed care system.
Careers for law professionals holding a health law degree are varied. An individual may work as a legal advisor to a hospital or clinic. A practicing attorney with a health law degree would be well equipped to handle cases of medical malpractice or fraud. An individual may also go on to pursue a career in health care legislation or health care reform.