Ethics & Law · single question

A dentist who reasonably suspects child abuse based on clinical findings is under what type of obligation to report it?

  1. A mandatory
  2. An optional, purely discretionary suggestion with no legal weight
  3. An obligation only if the parent gives consent to report
  4. No obligation exists for dental providers
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. A mandatory

Dentists, like other healthcare providers, are mandated reporters for suspected child abuse or neglect in virtually all U.S. jurisdictions — this is a legal requirement, not merely a discretionary or optional ethical suggestion, and applies regardless of whether the suspected abuser consents to the report being made.

Practice Ethics & Law questions Ethics & Law study notes

More Ethics & Law practice questions