Basic Law as it Applies to Dentistry
What is statutory law
a written law that is enforced by the US Congress, a state legislature, or a local governing body.
What is considered a criminal offense in dentistry?
practicing without a valid license, insurance fraud
What makes a contract binding?
it must be made between two people who are able to make decisions for themselves or the organization.
What does this segment of law deal with?
causing harm to people or property, whether it is on purpose or through an accident.
What does admin. law involve?
the regulations that are created by governing agencies, such as OSHA.
Why should dental assistants have a general understanding of statutory laws?
So they can protect themselves
What three categories can criminal law be broken into?
Felony, Misdemeanor, and Infraction
Who can NOT enter a binding agreement?
minors, those who are mentally incompetent, or people under the influence of drugs or alcohol
What is a tort?
a wrong doing that can be unintentional
Why is it important to keep up to date on the laws?
Doing so protects us all: you, the dental practice where you work, and the overall health and well-being of your patients.
What is criminal law?
where crimes are committed against society and are regulated by a governing body.
What three categories can civil law be broken down into that pertain to dentistry?
Contract, Tort, an Administrative
What do these contracts typically include?
payment for a service that was performed
How can tort be intentional?
Not following privacy laws and telling confidential information to people outside of the dental office
Give an example of administrative law
The State Dental Practice Act
What two categories can statutory law be broken down into?
Criminal law and Civil law
Civil laws are more private matters and can pertain to what?
civil rights
not doing the treatment to the best of their ability or not completing the treatment at all
What is malpractice?
when a doctor neglects a patient
When it comes to laws, what is your responsibility as a dental assistant?
to stay up to date with any changes and consistently abide by them.
What does civil law focus on?
relationships between individuals or businesses
What are the two types of contracts
expressed and implied
expressed is written or verbal and implied is created with actions
How can tort be unintentional?
if a dental assistant charts the wrong treatment that has been diagnosed and no one corrects the error.