The Association has posted a Sunshine Act Frequently Asked Questions for Dentists document to help members understand implications of the “transfer of value” data collection that began Aug. 1 and the data reporting that will follow.

The posting expands ADA communications on the Sunshine Act, which requires that certain companies providing payments, gifts, food, education and other “transfers” to dentists submit annual reports to the federal government with information about each dentist and what was provided. The government will post the information on a searchable public website called “Open Payments.” Certain companies must also report ownership and investment interests held by dentists and their immediate family members.
 
ADA members may access the Frequently Asked Questions online. Reproduction of this material by member dentists and their staff for use in the dental office is permitted. Any other use, duplication or distribution by any other party requires the prior written approval of the American Dental Association.

The ADA News, ADA.org, the ADA advocacy web site and other ADA communication venues offer more widely accessible reports on the Sunshine Act. The continuing series of ADA News Q-and-A reports on the Affordable Care Act also includes information on the Sunshine Act and its relevance to dentists.