Patients Rights
Confidentiality of patient information
We recognize the imperative to maintain patient information in a confidential
manner. Thus, patient information (e.g., medical/dental records, electronic
information) will not be disclosed in an unauthorized manner and will be
utilized only by those individuals authorized to review and act upon such
information.
“Confidentiality is a fundamental tenet of medical care. It is a matter of
respecting the privacy of patients, encouraging them to seek medical care and
discuss their problems candidly, and preventing discrimination on the basis of
their medical conditions.” (The American College of Physicians Ethics manual,
fourth edition, 1997.)
Informed Consent
We are committed to the principle that dentists should provide their patients
or legal representatives with enough information for patients to make an
informal decision concerning their dental care prior to being treated. Such
information should include the benefits and risks of the procedure or treatment
and alternative treatments or methods of care. Inherent in the right to consent
to treatment is the patient’s right to refuse care, within the limits of the
law, and to be informed of the possible medical outcomes of such refusal.
