A formal written notification serves as a means for a dental practice to terminate the professional relationship with a patient. This document outlines the reasons for the separation, specifies the effective date of termination, and provides instructions for obtaining continued care elsewhere. An instance would involve a patient who repeatedly fails to adhere to recommended treatment plans, creating a challenge for the practice to provide effective care.
Such a letter is crucial for mitigating legal risks and maintaining professional boundaries. It benefits the practice by allowing resources to be focused on patients who are actively engaged in their oral health. Historically, the need for these documents has grown as patient expectations and legal scrutiny of healthcare practices have increased.