
Assessing Liability Trends and Strategies for Prevention
CME_Online_Dental

About This Course
Assessing Liability Trends and Strategies for Prevention
This course provides dental professionals with essential knowledge and strategies to identify, manage, and mitigate legal risks associated with malpractice in clinical practice. Emphasizing best practices and effective communication, the course covers common causes of malpractice claims, documentation protocols, informed consent, and risk reduction techniques. Designed for both new and experienced practitioners, this course aims to enhance professional accountability and improve patient outcomes while minimizing legal exposure.
Part 1 - Course Staff

Al Anthony Mercado has practiced in the fields of medical, podiatric, and dental professional liability, general liability, and insurance coverage for over 30 years. He received his bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Stony Brook in 1989 before receiving his Juris Doctorate from Hofstra University School of Law in 1992. Mr. Mercado is admitted to practice law in New York State and the Eastern District of the State of New York.
Over his 30 plus year career Mr. Mercado has successfully litigated cases at the trial level throughout New York State with a special focus on the defense of complex malpractice cases. He has also prepared and successfully argued appeals before the appellate tribunals in New York State, including motions to the New York State Court of Appeals.
Mr. Mercado has vigorously represented healthcare professionals before the New York State Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC) and the New Yor York State Office of Professional Discipline (OPD). He also has extensive experience in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), having managed and participated in the arbitration/mediation of nearly 200 cases.
Objectives of this program include educating the participant on the following key topics:
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By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Identify the most common causes of dental malpractice claims and understand how to proactively reduce associated risks in daily practice.
- Demonstrate proper documentation techniques and informed consent procedures in patient care.
- Apply effective communication strategies to manage patient expectations, resolve conflicts, and prevent misunderstandings that can lead to legal action.
Fees
Free
Intended Audience: Dentists
Refund Policy
No refunds are available for online courses
Compliance Statement
The information contained in this presentation does not establish a standard of care, nor does it constitute legal advice
The information is for general informational purposes only and is prepared from a risk management perspective to aid in reducing professional liability exposure
Please review this presentation for applicability to your specific organization. You are encouraged to consult with your personal attorney for legal advice, as specific legal requirements may vary from state to state.
Successful completion of this course will entitle you to a 10% discount on your next OUM Professional Liability Policy Renewal according to OUM Policy. The course must be completed prior to, but no later than 30 days following the date of renewal.
Commercial Interests: No commercial interest provided financial support for this continuing education activity.
CME Online has approved this activity for a maximum of 1.0 continuing education contact hour.