Whose duty is it to protect children, the poor, and victims of domestic abuse? According to the "no duty to protect" rule, it is not the government's legal duty. Reflect on your reading from this week. Think about how the "no duty to protect" rule affects vulnerable groups in particular and how it affects what a public health professional can do for these individuals.
Review the DeShaney, Webster, and Castle Rock Supreme Court cases presented in Chapter 3. Consider what could have been done to protect these individuals and why they weren't protected.

problemS

1. Critically discuss the Supreme Court's position regarding the duties and responsibilities of health agencies to protect the public's health and safety.

2. Based on your understanding of the Supreme Court's views, critique the court's position from a legal, ethical, and public health perspective.