Mandatory reporting for suspected pediatric sexual abuse applies to which group?

• A. Physicians only
• B. All healthcare providers
• C. School teachers only
• D. Social workers only

Answer: (B)

Mandatory reporting is a legal obligation to notify authorities when there is a suspicion of child sexual abuse, so that a timely investigation and protective actions can occur. In medical settings, professionals who interact with children—doctors, nurses, therapists, psychologists, and other clinicians—are in positions to hear disclosures or notice signs of abuse. Because the child’s safety depends on prompt action, the duty to report is placed on all healthcare providers, not just a single profession. This broad responsibility helps ensure that a child seen for any health issue can be protected, and it prevents gaps that might occur if reporting were restricted to one group. While others like teachers or social workers in non-medical settings may also have reporting duties, the healthcare context specifically encompasses the wide range of clinicians who may encounter suspected abuse during medical care.