Abstract

LATORRACA, Márcio Martins; FLORES, Marta Regina Pinheiro  and  SILVA, Ricardo Henrique Alves da. Knowledge of the legal aspects of dental documentation by dentists from the city of Franca, SP, Brazil. RFO UPF [online]. 2012, vol.17, n.3, pp. 268-272. ISSN 1413-4012.

Introduction: Given the growing concerns among dental professionals about increasing lawsuits involving liability in civil and ethical (administrative) aspects, and even in the criminal scope, there is a understanding that the correct knowledge about filling dental records is a legal mean of major importance, helping to prevent such situations in their work activities. Objective: The objective of this study was to verify the knowledge of dental professionals regarding the correct filling of dental records as well as the legal aspects of it. Methods: An objective questionnaire verified the knowledge and behavior of dental professionals of the city of Franca, SP, Brazil. These professionals were randomly chosen from a list provided by the Sao Paulo Association of Dentists - Franca, SP, Brazil Regional. The obtained data were analyzed by descriptive statistics using Microsoft ExcelTM. Results: Through the questionnaire, it could be observed that most dentists interviewed know the importance of dental record. However, many of them overlook critical aspects, particularly regarding custody of documents and elaboration of a services contract, which only 64% of respondents prepare prior to treatment. Only 40% file radiographs taken during treatment, 26% file dental casts, 23% file drug prescriptions copies, and 11% file the issued certificates. Conclusion: It is concluded the need for more knowledge, control, and risk management related to professional liability by dentists, assumed in its operations.

Keywords : Documentation.; Forensic dentistry.; Civil liability..