Ethics

Ethical considerations in dental plan claims adjudication JADA 148(6) http://jada.ada.org June 2017 407

10/28/15 Is dentistry facing an ethical dilemma? By Donna Domino, Features Editor

Scandals, lawsuits, a growing focus on commercialization and self-promotion, and dentists who prescribe excessive treatments are tarnishing the profession's image, according to a presentation on ethics at the recent ADA annual session in Las Vegas.

What is a "professional?"

A professional is a member of a profession. Four qualities have been attributed to those who practice a profession:

      1. A professional has respect for human beings;
      2. A professional is competent;
      3. A professional has integrity;
      4. A professional's primary concern is service, not prestige or profit.see 2:73

These qualities are consistently reflected in the decisions and actions of a professional. To act professionally is to act as a true professional—to comply with the duties and obligations expected of a learned professional.