October 22nd - The Federal Trade Commission issued a press release announcing that it will suspend enforcement of the new “Red Flag Rule” until May 1, 2009, to give creditors subject to FTC jurisdiction additional time in which to develop and implement written identity theft prevention programs.

 

I don’t know about you, but I was totally caught off guard by this. I had no idea what the Red Flag Rule was. Nor did I know that it affected dentists. After researching the topic, I am left with the question; “why not just incorporate this into the HIPPA paperwork and training we already have in place?” The purpose of the Red Flag Rule is to prevent identity theft. Sounds like a privacy issue to me.

 

Dr. Mark Peppard, TDA Vice President S.E. Division and ADA Delegate wrote the informational article found in this edition of the Capital Star with input from Dr Jerry Long, ADA Trustee, 15^th District. Dr Peppard sent the related article on this issue to me immediately following the TDA Board of Directors meeting held on April 3, 2009. Unfortunately, this information comes to you with little or no time to comply. 

 

While most of you would agree that identity theft is a serious problem, the federal government (Federal Trade Commission) has imposed the Red Flag Rule as a means of prevention. Unfortunately, like so many other programs, the burden falls upon businesses. Unless there is a change in the requirement of dentists complying, which I would not expect, we do need to comply in a timely manner.

 

There are three points I would like to bring to your attention about these developments involving the Red Flag Rule.

 

ü  The response of the leadership of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association is another shining example of organized dentistry at its finest. Dr. Findley challenging the Federal Trade Commission on behalf of all dentists is commendable. Dr. Long, as our ADA Trustee certainly is very involved in this matter as well.

 

ü   Without organized dentistry, we as individual practitioners would likely first hear about the Red Flag Rule as some enforcement body is imposing fines and penalties for non-compliance. Together, we do have a loud voice as dentists. Another answer to those who wonder what we get for our dues dollars.

 

ü  ADA and TDA will continue to act on our behalf to challenge programs that are deemed unnecessary and help make compliance easier for members when necessary.