Advanced Directives Policy for Periodontal Practice

Purpose

To establish guidelines for managing and honoring patient advanced directives in accordance with state laws and ethical standards of periodontal practice.

Policy Statement

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

Procedures

1. Documentation Requirements

• Request and maintain copies of patients' advanced directives in their dental records
• Document the presence or absence of advanced directives during initial patient registration
• Update advanced directive information annually or as patients notify of changes

2. Staff Responsibilities

Front Office Staff

• Request advanced directive documentation during initial registration
• Scan and attach documents to patient's electronic dental record
• Flag charts with advanced directive indicators

Clinical Staff

• Review advanced directives before beginning treatment
• Ensure compliance with stated preferences
• Document any discussions regarding advanced directives

3. Types of Advanced Directives Recognized

• Dental/Medical Power of Attorney
• Living Will
• Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders
• POLST Forms (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment)

4. Emergency Protocols

1. Immediately access patient's advanced directive
2. Follow stated preferences unless legally invalid
3. Contact designated healthcare proxy if appointed
4. Document all actions taken

Compliance

All staff members must comply with this policy. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in disciplinary action.

Review and Updates

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to maintain compliance with current laws and regulations.

Practice Administrator Signature

Date: ________________