The DPRR Statement can vary by state, with some affording greater protection than others. As a framework for ethical care, the ADA guidelines can be broken down into four fundamental components regarding patient rights.
The same applies if a dentist refers you elsewhere because of race, sexual orientation, or any other discriminatory reason. However, a dentist may refer you if:
There is no room on the schedule, and you need immediate careA procedure is well outside the scope of the dentist’s practiceA certain insurance or form of payment is not accepted by the office
In the past, doctors and dentists often had a paternalistic role; they told you what to do and you did it. No more. Today, anyone undergoing a dental procedure has the right to the full disclosure of information in order to make an informed choice. This includes:
The right to know the education and training of the dentist and dental teamThe right to have a complete explanation of the purpose, goals, and risks of current and future proceduresThe right to ask questions and receive answersThe right to know in advance what the cost of treatment is expected to be
With that being said, the ADA adds that you have the right to “arrange to see the dentist every time you receive dental treatment.” The interpretation of this varies by state. Some states, for example, require a dentist to see you once a year, even if you only go in for cleaning. Other states are laxer in their regulations.
In addition to access, the ADA asserts that:
You have the right to receive considerate, respectful, and safe treatment. You have a right to accept, defer, decline, or dispute any part of your treatment. You have a right to ask for alternative treatment options (even though a dentist may decline if they are harmful, experimental, or contrary to prescribed dental practices).
HIPAA was passed in 1996 to protect the use, security and confidentiality of a person’s health information.
Broadly speaking, HIPAA dictates that dentists are only allowed to share a patient’s health information with the following entities:
The patient being treatedAny group or individual involved in the treatment, payment, or healthcare operations related to the specific dental procedure (including insurance)Anyone for whom informal permission has been granted by the patient (such as a family member)
Other exceptions apply. Certain state laws are even more stringent, requiring formal, written consent and other restrictions.
Moreover, a dentist cannot deny you a copy of your records if you haven’t paid for the services you’ve received. However, they can charge a fee for preparing and mailing the records, if requested.
