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Ethics & Law · single question

A dentist can dismiss a patient in all of the following situations EXCEPT:

  1. Failure to make payment arrangements
  2. When the patient is experiencing acute dental pain
  3. Harassment of office staff
  4. Repeated failure to keep scheduled appointments
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. When the patient is experiencing acute dental pain

  • A. Failure to pay or make payment arrangements is a legitimate reason for dismissal, as long as it is not in the middle of an ongoing treatment that would leave the patient worse off.
  • B. A dentist CANNOT dismiss a patient who is in acute pain or an emergency situation — this would constitute patient abandonment and is both ethically and legally indefensible. The patient must be seen or referred for emergency care. ✓
  • C. Harassment of staff is an ethical and legal basis for dismissal — no dental office is required to tolerate abusive behavior.
  • D. Consistent failure to attend appointments is valid grounds for patient dismissal, provided proper written notice and emergency coverage are given.

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