Posting “before and after” images is considered an ethical violation even with patient authorization

This is a controversial subject. And that shouldn't even be controversial, at least from the point of view of our Code of Ethics, which is very clear on the subject. Fact: The dentist who discloses “before and after” photos commits an ethical infraction, regardless of the patient's authorization, according to the Code of Dental Ethics (Resolution CFO 118/2012).

Communication and disclosure in dentistry obey their own rules, expressly provided for in articles 41 to 46 of the referred diploma. Thus, it is an ethical infraction to disclose clinical results by any means of communication (art. 44, item V) and to expose to the lay public images and / or expressions before, during and after, concerning dental procedures (art. 44, items I and XII). Regardless of patient authorization, there will be ethical violation. They are jointly and severally liable for the violations of the owners, the technical responsible and the other professionals who have contributed to the illicit.

The rules of the Code of Dental Ethics apply to all those who practice Dentistry, even indirectly, whether individuals or legal entities, such as clinics, polyclinics, health care plan operators, agreements in any form, accreditations or any other. other entities.

It is important to remember that the patient, his image or any other element that identifies him, in any form of communication or under any pretext, for breach of professional secrecy, pursuant to art. 14, item III.

Exception to breach of confidentiality will occur if the dental surgeon is teaching or in scientific publications, in which the authorization of the patient or his legal guardian will allow him to display the image or medical record for educational purposes (art. 14, item III, final part).

Can this one-day change? Can. Many want it to change, but until it changes, the rule is this. And rules are there to be fulfilled. If not complied with, it is punishable under our Code of Ethics.

Source: Odontodivas. Available at: https://odontodivas.com/2018/09/antes-e-depois-e-infracao-etica-mesmo-com-autorizacao-do-paciente.html. Access on: 09/23/2020.