H&L Dentistry abides to the American Dental Association Code of Ethics.
The dental profession holds a special position of trust within our society. As a consequence, society affords our profession certain privileges that are not available to members of the public at large. In return, the profession makes a commitment to society that its members will adhere to high ethical standards of conduct.
Here’s a summary of the 5 pledges in the ADA Principles of Ethics and Code of Professional Conduct and what you can expect at your next appointment at H&L Dentistry:
Respect a Patient’s Wants and Needs
As a patient, you have the right to be involved in decisions about your treatment and to expect privacy and confidentiality. “The code reminds all dentists that they have the duty to put the patient first, to involve the patient in treatment decisions in a meaningful way and to treat the patient taking into account the patient’s desires, as long as those desires are within the bounds of accepted treatment,”.
Do No Harm
Our duty is to keep you safe and healthy. Part of this is keeping our knowledge and skills current and referring patients to specialists whenever necessary. “To ‘Do No Harm’ is really the Golden Rule,”. “Dentists practice ‘Do No Harm’ in many ways, but one universal expression is dedication to keeping their knowledge and skills up-to-date. New science and technology can quickly emerge. In response, dentists complete a tremendous number of hours in continuing education annually to provide patients with the highest level of science-based effective and safe care.”.
Do Good
This means that we will provide high-quality and timely treatment, while considering your needs, desires and values. “To do good for a dentist means to consider each patient as an individual and whatever is in their best interest. We discuss treatment options together so we come to an agreement about what’s best, It’s also important to use scientific evidence for the public good, such as fluoridation.”.
Be Fair
We do not discriminate and will provide excellent dental care without prejudice. “Everyone is treated fairly, regardless of race, color, gender, orientation, religion, politics, socioeconomic background, ethnicity and health conditions” .
Be Truthful
The doctor-patient relationship is based on mutual trust and honesty.
The ADA Code
The ADA Code is, in effect, a written expression of the obligations arising from the implied contract between the dental profession and society.
The ADA Code is the result of an ongoing dialogue between the dental profession and society, and as such, is subject to continuous review.
Although ethics and the law are closely related, they are not the same. Ethical obligations may — and often do — exceed legal duties.
In resolving any ethical problem not explicitly covered by the ADA Code, dentists should consider the ethical principles, the patient’s needs and interests, and any applicable laws.
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