Policy Statement 6.20 - Social Responsibility

Position Summary

Dentistry should be practised in a way that is culturally sensitive, non-discriminatory and socially responsible.

1. Background

Australia is made up of people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Our rich society is derived from the special and unique culture of our First Nations people and our more recent members from around the globe.

1.1. The ADA and its member dentists have a long-standing commitment to ethical and professional standards and practice and have historically helped those in need both in Australia and overseas with assistance such as financial aid, scholarships and volunteer efforts. They have a proud history of proactively and ethically advocating for oral health and have historically helped those in need in Australia and overseas, providing assistance such as financial aid, scholarships and volunteer efforts.

1.2. The ADA’s objects as enshrined in its Constitution include encouraging the improvement of the oral and general health of the public and advancing and promoting the ethics, art and science of dentistry.

Definitions

1.3. SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY is an ethical ideology or theory that an entity, be it an organization or individual, has an obligation to act to benefit society at large.

1.4. SUSTAINABILITY is improving the quality of human life while living within the carrying capacity of supporting eco-systems.

2. Position

2.1. All patients must be treated equitably and without discrimination.

2.2. Health is considered a central human right and so all Australians should have access to basic resources for health.

2.3. Dentistry should be practised in a way that is culturally sensitive, non-discriminatory and socially responsible.

2.4. There are individuals and communities that cannot adequately fund their dental treatment who require the benevolent support of the wider community.

2.5. The environmental impact of dental care delivery should be minimised.

2.6. Members should treat each other respectfully and fairly within the standards set out by jurisdictional legislation.