Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What must happen to records of a licensee's participation in a diversion program after completion?

1. They must be archived indefinitely

2. They must be shared publicly

3. They must be reviewed by a regulatory board

4. They must be purged and destroyed

The correct answer is: They must be purged and destroyed

After a licensee completes a diversion program, it is essential for their records to be purged and destroyed to uphold confidentiality and protect the individual's privacy. Diversion programs are designed to provide support and rehabilitation for licensees struggling with certain issues, typically substance use disorders or mental health problems. The focus of these programs is on recovery rather than punishment. When a licensee successfully completes a diversion program, the records associated with their participation are often considered sensitive and personal. Keeping such records could lead to unnecessary stigma or complications that could affect the individual’s ability to practice in the future. Therefore, purging and destroying these records after a successful completion is a crucial step to ensure that the information remains confidential and that the individuals are not adversely affected in their professional lives, allowing for a fresh start without the weight of their past challenges. Options related to archiving indefinitely, sharing publicly, or review by a regulatory board do not align with the principles of confidentiality and protection that govern diversion programs. Instead, the emphasis is on rehabilitation and safeguarding the individual's right to privacy following their successful participation in the program.