Policy on Patient Safety

Purpose

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recognizes patient safety as an essential component of quality oral health care for infants, children, adolescents, and those with special health care needs. The AAPD encourages dentists to consider thoughtfully the environment in which they deliver health care services and to implement practices to improve patient safety. This policy is not intended to duplicate safety recommendations for medical facilities accredited by national commissions such as The Joint Commission or those related to workplace safety such as Occupational Safety and Health Administration.