Abstract
This legal guidance addresses dentists' inability to respond to negative online reviews using patient information. The article explains that HIPAA and Michigan's Dentist-Patient Privilege Statute prohibit healthcare professionals from disclosing patient information without authorization, even when defending against false or defamatory online posts. Unlike patients who can freely share information about their treatment, dentists face significant legal restrictions. The author notes that legal recourse is often difficult due to challenges in proving poster identity, distinguishing factual statements from opinions, and demonstrating specific damages. The recommended approach is to avoid responding to negative posts and instead focus on reputation management through positive patient testimonials, practice websites, and proactive online presence rather than attempting to refute claims using patient records.
Recommended Citation
Schulte, Daniel J.D.
(2025)
"Dentistry and the Law: Can I Use Patient Information to Respond to Internet Criticism?,"
The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association: Vol. 107:
No.
6, Article 4.
Available at:
https://commons.ada.org/journalmichigandentalassociation/vol107/iss6/4
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