Risk Management/TDIC

Several small to mid-sized businesses have been affected by a ransomware attack targeting Kaseya VSA, a software management company used widely by managed service providers that handle IT needs for companies in the health care sector, including many dental practices.

How does your practice navigate unpredictable times? Beyond the challenges of the past year, dentists often face incidents they can’t anticipate or prevent. But they can be prepared and choose how they respond. Reporting every incident, accommodating modified duties and reducing return-to-work risks are important steps.

Dental professionals face a number of challenges in securing consent for oral care, but there are specific consent and documentation considerations when caring for older adults.

In 2020 alone, The Dentists Insurance Company’s Risk Management Advice Line received 18,018 calls from dentists seeking support to navigate practice challenges. It’s a number that illustrates the myriad conflicts dentists navigate today as well as the need for tools to help them de-escalate potential crises. 

There’s a rising wave of litigation based on violations of the Americans with Disability Act. In addition to “drive by” lawsuits grounded in physical barriers to access, “click by” lawsuits are being filed in increasing numbers.

During this challenging year, stress levels have often been high and patience very low. Regardless of these external stressors or how different individuals manage their frustrations, dental professionals deserve a working environment that is free from hostile interactions. 

The discussions and debates that seem inescapable during and after election season can impede productivity and create potential risks, but practice owners can take the lead by asking patients and staff to leave political discussions at the door. Establish boundaries and de-escalate tension to minimize conflicts.

Being the victim of theft is bad enough, but when that theft is perpetrated by a trusted member of your dental team, it’s especially harrowing. Unfortunately, theft within dental practices is surprisingly common and it’s on the rise. One of the most common types of theft in the dental office is staff embezzlement.

Many calls to TDIC’s Risk Management Advice Line concern informed consent and communicating any risks of contracting COVID-19 in a dental setting. Learn more about which informed consent forms are sufficient today and how a signed form can be your first line of defense when facing a professional liability claim.

The combination of clinical concerns, business uncertainties and economic pressures can lead to overwhelming feelings of anger, fear, disillusion and grief. Dentists are connected to a network of peers, as well as specialized experts, who can share empathetic, objective guidance in times of hardship.

The Dentists Insurance Company will begin issuing premium refunds this week to policyholders affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The art of communication is the language of leadership. In the dental office, open communication between practice owners and staff ensures an efficient workplace, reduces employee turnover, improve job satisfaction and helps mitigate potential employment-related claims.