Reporting child abuse and neglect: responding to a cry for help.
Dentists, registered dental hygienists, and registered dental assistants are designated by law as mandated reporters who are required to report suspected cases of abuse and neglect while in their professional capacities. By taking a proactive role in the detection and reporting of child abuse and neglect, dental mandated reporters may save the lives of young victims and assist agencies in helping families in the community. It is vitally important that mandated reporters become aware of their legal obligations regarding the reporting of abuse and neglect. This article is designed to serve as a dental team in-service training program for the detection and reporting of child abuse and neglect. Many of the concepts discussed can be applied to the other forms of family violence.
Shanel-Hogan
K A
KA
California Dental Association, Sacramento 95814, USA.
Jarrett
J A
JA
D002140:California; D002648:Child; D002649:Child Abuse / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004282:Documentation; D005568:Forms and Records Control; D006801:Humans; D019221:Mandatory Reporting