There appears to be controversy over this topic. The issue: if a dentist finds a non-dental problem on a CT scan, such as a carotid anthroma (which indicates a stroke risk), some believe the dentist is obligated to refer the patient to an MD – or face a potential malpractice suit. Not what you had in mind when you bought that expensive CT unit?
In an article at Dr. Bicuspid, lawyers disagree on the subject. On one hand, the dentist is trained to diagnose dental conditions, not medical conditions. On the other hand, if you see a problem, it’s your ethical responsibility to make the patient aware.
The controversy stems from the fact that this whole situation is new to the dental field. Many dentists purchase CT scanners to plan implant placement, and the detailed images can reveal more than you would see in an X-ray. So do you skip the CT scan, save a buck, and just refer patients to an outside facility for imaging? Experts say that route is not safe either. Apparently the imaging facilities are not responsible for interpreting the scans – the dentist who ordered them is.
Another problem – if you don’t use a CT scan to plan an implant case and the procedure goes awry, will you be sued? According to the Dr. Bicuspid article, your best bet is to refer patients to radiologists, specialists who can interpret X-rays in your stead.
SOURCE: Dr. Bicuspid