Thurs., Nov. 5, 2026
TBD – PM (Lecture)
Room TBD
Speaker: Ann-Marie C. DePalma, CDA, RDH, MEd

Recommended for: Dentists, Hygienists, Assistants, Office Staff, and Dental Students

Documentation is critical in the patient care process and represents a chronological history of the patient’s treatment. Your records have been requested by an authority – would they pass inspection?

During the dental treatment plan process, dental professionals use APIED (Assess, Plan, Implement, Evaluate and Document). You never get a second chance if your patient records are requested. Participating in this program we will review the steps to proper documentation and understand how HIPAA and documentation intersect.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss APIED in the process of patient care and its role in documenting clinical practice and patient care.
• Summarize steps for proper documentation to ensure patient safety, compliance and treatment.
• Review basic HIPAA requirements for electronic records.
• Briefly discuss cybersecurity, ransomware and phishing.

Ann-Marie C. DePalma, CDA, RDH, MEd is a graduate of Forsyth School for Dental Hygienists, Northeastern University and University of Massachusetts Boston. Her passion, dedication and expertise inspire dental professionals through her CE programs and publications. She has experience as a clinical hygienist, a faculty member, consultant and software trainer and is a fellow in several dental hygiene organizations. Ann-Marie is an Esther Wilkins Distinguished Alumni of Forsyth Award recipient. Beyond dentistry, Ann-Marie volunteers in several local community organizations.

Ms. DePalma (or an immediate family member) has a significant relationship with the following commercial organizations whose products she will refer to in her presentation:

The University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, Office of Alumni Relations and Professional Engagement designates this activity for 3 continuing education credits.