Is refusing to treat a patient due to inability to pay a violation of the California Dental Association's Code of Ethics?

Refusing to treat a patient solely based on their inability to pay is indeed considered a violation of the California Dental Association's Code of Ethics. This code emphasizes the ethical duty of dentists to treat all patients with compassion and respect, regardless of their financial situation. The ethical principle of justice, which underpins this guideline, advocates for fair treatment and access to dental care for all individuals, signaling that financial circumstances should not prevent someone from receiving necessary treatment.

The Code encourages dentists to find alternative solutions, such as payment plans or referring to resources that assist low-income patients, rather than outright refusal to provide care based on a patient's ability to pay. This ethical stance supports the idea that healthcare professionals have a responsibility to advocate for and contribute to the health of the community, transcending purely transactional relationships.