Mid-Atlantic P.A.N.D.A. Training

Preventing Abuse and Neglect Through Dental Awareness

Table of Contents

• Course Overview
• Course Details
• Learning Objectives
• Maryland Licensing Requirements
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Register for the Course
• P.A.N.D.A. Training (In-Person and Virtual with Live Trainer)

Course Overview

The Mid-Atlantic P.A.N.D.A. (Prevent Abuse and Neglect Through Dental Awareness) training program is designed to help dental professionals recognize and respond to cases of child abuse, neglect, intimate partner violence, elder abuse, and human trafficking. Viva Learning offers on-demand and free Mid-Atlantic P.A.N.D.A. training, but it is pre-recorded. Midatlanticpanda.org offers in-person or virtual live training for a small fee.

This continuing education (CE) program is approved by the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners and fulfills the two CE credit requirement for abuse and neglect prevention training, which must be completed every other license renewal cycle by Maryland dentists and dental hygienists. Both Part 1 and Part 2 of the course must be completed to earn the required credits.

Course Details

Part 1: Child Abuse and Neglect

• Presenter: Sheryl Syme, RDH, MS
• Release Date: January 13, 2023
• Expiration Date: January 13, 2026
• Credits: 1 CEU
• AGD Subject Code: 155
• CE Supporter: Philips Oral Healthcare

Register for Part 1

Part 2: Intimate Partner Violence, Elder Abuse, and Human Trafficking

• Presenter: Sheryl Syme, RDH, MS
• Release Date: January 20, 2023
• Expiration Date: January 20, 2026
• Credits: 1 CEU
• AGD Subject Code: 155
• CE Supporter: Philips Oral Healthcare

Register for Part 2

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Identify the signs and risk factors of abuse, neglect, bullying, and human trafficking among children, vulnerable adults, the elderly, and intimate partners.
• Differentiate between injuries caused by abuse and those resulting from accidents, genetic conditions, infections, or cultural practices.
• Understand the ethical and legal responsibilities of dental professionals regarding the reporting of abuse and neglect.
• Learn how to implement screening questions effectively and address barriers to reporting.
• Recognize the appropriate local and national agencies to report suspected abuse and neglect.

Maryland Licensing Requirements

Maryland law mandates that all licensed dentists and dental hygienists complete a two-hour, board-approved course on abuse and neglect every other license renewal cycle. The Mid-Atlantic P.A.N.D.A. course fulfills this requirement and counts toward the 30 required CE hours for renewal.

In addition to this training, Maryland dental professionals must also complete:

• CPR certification from an approved provider such as the American Heart Association or American Red Cross.
• A two-hour course on proper prescribing and disposal of prescription drugs (required for dentists).
• A minimum of two hours of infection control training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is required to report abuse?

Healthcare professionals, including dentists, dental hygienists, physicians, nurses, social workers, teachers, and emergency responders, are legally required to report suspected abuse and neglect.

Why is abuse and neglect training required?

Mandated reporters must be able to recognize signs of abuse and know how to report it. Education ensures that dental professionals are equipped to help victims and prevent ongoing harm.

Where can I take a Maryland-approved abuse and neglect course?

The Mid-Atlantic P.A.N.D.A. program is certified by the Maryland State Board of Dental Examiners and meets all licensing requirements. The course is available online through Viva Learning.

How often do I need to take this course?

Maryland dental professionals must complete two CE credits in abuse and neglect training every four years, which aligns with the state’s renewal cycle.

What should I do if I suspect a patient is being abused?

If you suspect abuse, contact the appropriate local or national agency to report your concerns. Good Samaritan laws protect professionals who report suspected abuse in good faith.

Register for these Courses

Enroll today to fulfill your Maryland CE requirement and learn how to recognize and report abuse and neglect in your dental practice.