Child Abuse Recognition and
Reporting Requirements
Pennsylvania law requires clearances when interacting with or treating children. Learn more about how to apply and keep up-to-date with these clearances on www. padental. org.
New provisions in Pennsylvania’ s Child Protective Services Law require individuals to obtain several clearances every five years, in the course of their employment or volunteer activities, if they have either:
• Direct contact with children because they provide care, supervision, guidance or control of children, AND
• Routine interaction with children defined as“ regular and repeated contact that is integral to a person’ s employment responsibilities.”
To help determine which members of your dental office staff need certifications, you may want to consult with your insurance carrier or attorney. However, PDA advises members to err on the side of caution and have all staff having any contact with children obtain the certifications.
The following certifications are needed to comply with this law:
• Report of criminal history from PA State Police
• Child Abuse History Certification from PA Department of Human Services
• Federal criminal history from FBI
Use this website for instructions and links to apply for these certifications: www. dhs. pa. gov / provider / childwelfareservices / childabusehistoryclearanceforms /
You are required to keep copies of your certifications, and those of your employees. You must also require prospective employees to produce these documents prior to employment. Clearances obtained for volunteer purposes cannot be used for employment purposes, but employment clearances are acceptable for volunteer activities.
Please email the government relations staff at mss @ padental. org or kek @ padental. org, or call( 800) 223-0016, with any questions or concerns.
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2017 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL 11