Der rechtlich gebotene Umgang mit abklärungsbedürftigen (Zufalls-)Befunden in epidemiologischen Studien

The number of so-called incidental findings in epidemiological studies is increasing. Therefore the present dissertation in medical law examines how to handle these findings from a legal point of view. The dissertation primarily focusses on the questions if or rather under what kind of circumstances an epidemiologic scientist is allowed to inform the proband about noticeable and thus potentially pathological findings. It further thematises if this act of information is even legally required in Germany by examining the contractual duties resulting from the treatment contract and the proband contract. Furthermore the dissertation refers to aspects of data protection, medical professional and criminal law with regard to the legally required dealing with incidental findings in epidemiological studies.