Advanced Directives Policy for Orthodontic Practice

Purpose

To establish guidelines for handling advanced directives in orthodontic care and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations while respecting patient autonomy.

Policy Statement

This orthodontic practice recognizes and respects patients' rights to make informed decisions about their dental care, including the right to accept or refuse treatment through advanced directives.

Definitions

• Advanced Directive: A legal document stating a patient's wishes regarding future dental/medical treatment
• Healthcare Proxy: Individual designated to make healthcare decisions when the patient is incapacitated
• Living Will: Document specifying treatment preferences

Procedures

1. Documentation Requirements

• Maintain copies of advanced directives in patient records
• Document the presence/absence of advanced directives during initial consultation
• Update information annually or as directed by patient

2. Staff Responsibilities

• Front office staff must inquire about advanced directives during registration
• Clinical staff must review directives before treatment
• Practice manager maintains current copies of all relevant forms

3. Implementation Guidelines

1. Request advanced directive documentation at initial visit
2. Scan documents into EMR system
3. Flag patient charts with advanced directive status
4. Review directives before any invasive procedures

Compliance

• Annual staff training on advanced directive policies
• Regular audits of patient records for proper documentation
• Updates to policy as required by state/federal regulations

References

[State-specific regulations to be inserted] ADA Guidelines on Patient Rights and Responsibilities