What are the reporting requirements for suspected abuse or neglect in Florida dentistry?

• A. Wait for patient to self-report.
• B. Dental professionals must make mandatory reports to appropriate authorities if abuse or neglect is suspected.
• C. Post a notice in the waiting room.
• D. Only report if the patient consents.

Answer: (B)

In Florida, dental professionals are mandatory reporters when abuse or neglect is suspected. When there is reasonable cause to suspect abuse or neglect of a child, an elderly person, or a person with a disability, you must report to the Florida Abuse Hotline immediately by phone and then submit a written report within 48 hours. The hotline routes the report to the correct agency—the Department of Children and Families for children, or Adult Protective Services for elderly or disabled adults. This requirement exists to enable prompt investigation and protection for vulnerable individuals; it does not wait for the patient to report themselves, and you should not rely on consent or try to alert patients with notices in the waiting room.