Gov. Gavin Newsom on Oct. 8 signed Assembly Bill 1622, which revises language in the written informed consent form that dentists must provide to patients prior to administering general anesthesia and deep or moderate sedation.
Although the new law does not impact the practice of dentistry, dentists should ensure that beginning Jan. 1, 2020, they are using a consent form that is compliant with the new law. The specific language changes are shown here:
“The administration and monitoring of deep sedation or general anesthesia may vary depending on the type of procedure, the type of practitioner, the age and health of the patient, and the setting in which anesthesia is provided. Risks may vary with each specific situation. You are encouraged to explore all the options available for your child’s anesthesia for their dental treatment, and consult with your dentist, family physician, or pediatrician as needed.”
The Dentists Insurance Company updated its consent form template to include the required language updates. Policyholders can access the updated form in nine languages on the TDIC website.
All CDA members can access the form, “Discussion and Informed Consent for Anesthesia/Sedation,” in the Practice Support resource library.