Integrating Legal Education into Medical Training: A Conceptual Framework for Reducing Medico-Legal Risks in Healthcare

Background: The rapid digitalisation of healthcare, the expanding use of artificial intelligence, and the development of cross-border medical services have significantly transformed medical practice. These developments have also intensified medico-legal risks and professional liability exposure for healthcare professionals. Despite these changes, legal education remains insufficiently integrated into medical training, creating a gap between regulatory requirements and clinical practice. Methods: This study is based on a narrative analysis of the international literature addressing medico-legal challenges in healthcare, including medical errors, malpractice litigation, patient safety, digital health, and artificial intelligence. Drawing on international regulatory standards and educational frameworks, a conceptual model was developed to support the integration of legal education into medical curricula. Results: The analysis highlights persistent deficiencies in legal literacy among healthcare professionals, regardless of speciality or level of experience. Evidence from the reviewed literature suggests an association between lower levels of legal knowledge and increased professional vulnerability, including reported malpractice litigation and patient safety incidents. The proposed conceptual framework outlines a structured and longitudinal approach to integrating legal education into medical training, based on horizontal and vertical curricular integration, alignment with regulatory standards, and continuous professional development. Conclusions: Integrating legal education into medical curricula may represent a relevant strategy for supporting patient safety, strengthening medico-legal risk awareness, and promoting professional accountability. The proposed framework offers a conceptual and adaptable structure for medical schools and healthcare institutions.