Effective June 1, 2010 Attention:  Dental & Medical Office Managers:

The Federal Trade Commission considers medical and dental offices as a "creditor" considering these offices carry patient balances --including pending insurance despite the patient being ultimately responsible. The government identified 26 "red flags" to alert offices of potential patterns, practices and activities that may result in identity theft.  Offices are required to provide training and implement an Identity Theft Protection Policy.  Maintain training rosters and employee's acknowledgment of the practice's program.  Guide available:

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/business/idtheft/bus23.pdf