What can result from failing to maintain proper patient records?

Failing to maintain proper patient records can lead to disciplinary action, which is a significant concern for dental practitioners. Proper documentation is crucial in the healthcare field for several reasons. Accurate patient records serve as a legal safeguard; they help protect the practitioner from liability in cases where patient care is questioned or if there is litigation involved. Inadequate or incomplete records can be interpreted as a violation of the standards of care, potentially resulting in an investigation by licensing boards or other regulatory bodies.

Disciplinary actions could vary from fines to suspension or revocation of a dental license, depending on the severity of the oversight. Maintaining thorough and accurate records is not just best practice; it's a legal requirement in Minnesota and elsewhere, reflecting a commitment to patient safety and quality care.卫生

The context provided by the other choices appears to show advantages that might result from proper record-keeping, but failing to do so typically leads to adverse outcomes rather than improvements in patient care, referrals, or reputation.