Practice Ownership
What notice must be furnished to patients upon the sale or closure of a practice?
If a licensee ceases to engage in the practice of dentistry or it is anticipated that he or she will remain out of practice for more than six months, the licensee or a designee shall:
- Establish a procedure by which patients may obtain treatment records or agree to the transfer of those records to another licensee who is assuming the responsibilities of that practice;
- If the practice will not be attended by another licensee, publish a notice of the cessation and the established procedure for the retrieval of records in a newspaper of general circulation in the geographic location of the licensee's practice, at least once each month for the first three months after the cessation;
- File a notice of the established procedure for the retrieval of records with the Board of Dentistry;
- Make reasonable efforts to directly notify any patient treated during the six months preceding the cessation of the practice to provide information concerning the established procedure for retrieval of records; and
- Conspicuously post a notice on the premises of the procedure for the retrieval of records.
**** The ADA also provides guidance which can be found here: https://ebusiness.ada.org/assets/docs/3866.PDF?OrderID=1807260
Source: NJ State Board of Dentistry Regulations - Chapter-30-New-Jersey-Board-of-Dentistry.
Can a non-dentist have an ownership interest in a dental practice?
The Professional Service Corporation Act requires that only state licensed dentists, or closely allied professionals, can have an ownership interest in the clinical components of the dental practice. Dental offices may contract for non-clinical services in an office.
Can a practice which had been owned by a deceased dentist continue to operate?
Yes, for a period of time. At the death of a dentist, the executor of the estate may employ licensed dentists and dental assistants and charge for their services for up to 12 months after death.
What requirements pertain to the sale, relocation or disposal of radiographic equipment?
Is a Dentist Considered a Regulated Medical Waste Generator?
Yes, under the NJ Department of Environmental Protection, a dentist is considered a generator of Regulated Medical Waste. Find more information and resources below:
