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