Which statement best defines administrative law in medicine?

• A. Administrative law refers to rules and regulations created by governing bodies that determine licensing and rules of medical practice.
• B. Civil law governs disputes between individuals or organizations.
• C. Criminal law involves punishment by incarceration.
• D. Constitutional law governs the powers of government.

Answer: (A)

Administrative law in medicine is the set of rules created by government agencies—like medical boards and health departments—that regulate licensing, credentialing, scope of practice, and disciplinary actions for physicians and other healthcare professionals. It governs how licenses are granted, suspended, or revoked, the standards professionals must meet, and the procedures agencies use to enforce these rules and adjudicate complaints. This makes it distinct from civil law (which handles disputes between individuals or organizations), criminal law (which deals with punishment for crimes), and constitutional law (which defines government powers and fundamental rights). The statement that administrative law encompasses rules and regulations created by governing bodies that determine licensing and rules of medical practice best captures its role in medicine.