Presented by: Laura Diamond

Administrative and Healthcare Attorney, Austin, Texas
Dalrymple, Shellhorse, Ellis & Diamond, LLP

Course Description: 

This course equips dentists with practical strategies for handling patient complaints and managing regulatory investigations by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners. Participants learn proactive approaches to mitigate patient dissatisfaction, understand the investigative process, and navigate disciplinary proceedings and actions. Topics include complaint response protocols, maintaining accurate records, and leveraging legal resources. 

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the common signs and indicators that may precede a patient complaint in a dental practice.
• Identify proactive strategies to mitigate patient dissatisfaction and prevent complaints from escalating.
• Recognize the importance of effective communication and responsiveness in addressing patient concerns to potentially avoid formal complaints.
• Learn the steps involved in responding to patient complaints, including the gathering of necessary documentation and engagement with legal and insurance resources.
• Gain familiarity with the investigative process conducted by regulatory boards in response to patient complaints, specifically focusing on the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners.
• Comprehend the potential disciplinary actions that may result from investigations by regulatory boards and the implications for dental practitioners.
• Acquire knowledge of best practices for maintaining accurate and organized patient records to support responses to complaints and investigations.
• Understand the significance of timely and thorough responses to notices of patient complaints to comply with regulatory requirements and protect professional integrity.
• Explore the role of informal settlement conferences in resolving complaints and the benefits of legal representation during this process.
• Develop an awareness of the range of outcomes that may arise from patient complaints, from dismissal to disciplinary actions, and the associated requirements or penalties.

CE Credit: 0.5 hours

 AGD Subject Code: 565

Original Release Date: 2/19/2024

Review Date: 2/19/2024

Expiration Date: 2/19/2027

Course Availability: Content availability does not expire.

Software and Hardware Requirements:

This course is viewable via computer, tablet or mobile device. We always recommend using Chrome or Firefox to view courses. If you need technical assistance, please contact Client Care Team at 817-755-0035

Presented by: Laura Diamond

Administrative and Healthcare Attorney, Austin, Texas
Dalrymple, Shellhorse, Ellis & Diamond, LLP

Course Description:

This course teaches dental professionals how to comply with regulations and best practices in dental practice management. Participants will learn about administering nitrous oxide, preoperative sedation checklists, and emergency preparedness policies. The course emphasizes the importance of using preoperative checklists and accurately documenting nitrous oxide administration to meet regulatory standards and reduce audit risks.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the regulations and rules governing dental practice in Texas, including the Dental Practice Act and Texas Administrative Code.
• Learn the importance of accurate record-keeping in dental practice, including documentation of patient encounters, treatment plans, and informed consent discussions.
• Identify common elements overlooked in record-keeping and risk management, such as maintaining complete dental charts for all patients and ensuring timely provision of patient records upon request.
• Recognize the significance of informed consent in dental procedures and understand the requirements for obtaining and documenting patient consent effectively.
• Gain insight into the considerations and best practices for tele-dentistry services, including compliance with regulations and standards of care for remote patient consultations and treatments.
• Understand the importance of using a preoperative checklist for nitrous oxide administration and ensure all required elements are included.
• Learn how to properly document nitrous oxide administration, including start and stop times, concentration administered, and individuals present.
• Recognize the significance of accurately determining ASA classification for patients receiving nitrous oxide and the potential need for physician consultation.
• Familiarize oneself with the inspection process for moderate sedation through general anesthesia permits and proactively self-audit to ensure compliance.
• Identify potential indicators of patient complaints and take proactive steps to address patient concerns, avoid complaints, and ensure compliance with record-keeping requirements.

CE Credit: 1.0 hours

AGD Subject Code: 565

Original Release Date: 2/19/2024

Review Date: 2/29/2024

Expiration Date: 2/14/2027

Course Availability: Content availability does not expire.

Software and Hardware Requirements:

This course is viewable via computer, tablet or mobile device. We always recommend using Chrome or Firefox to view courses. If you need technical assistance, please contact Client Care Team at 817-755-0035