Who are typically considered Mandated Reporters under the law?

Who are typically considered Mandated Reporters under the law?

• A. Any patient
• B. Designated professionals who must report suspected child abuse
• C. Dentists only
• D. Judges only

Answer: (B)

Mandated reporters are people legally required to report suspected child abuse. In Missouri, designated professionals—those who work with or care for children, such as teachers, doctors, nurses, social workers, licensed child care providers, and similar professionals—must report concerns to the appropriate authorities promptly. They’re in positions where signs of abuse are likely to be noticed during their work, which is why this group is specifically designated to report. The other options miss the broader, legally defined group: not every patient is required to report, and restricting the duty to dentists or judges does not align with the law.

Mandated reporters are people legally required to report suspected child abuse. In Missouri, designated professionals—those who work with or care for children, such as teachers, doctors, nurses, social workers, licensed child care providers, and similar professionals—must report concerns to the appropriate authorities promptly. They’re in positions where signs of abuse are likely to be noticed during their work, which is why this group is specifically designated to report. The other options miss the broader, legally defined group: not every patient is required to report, and restricting the duty to dentists or judges does not align with the law.