Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and Neglect - American Samoa

Professionals Required to Report
Citation: Ann. Code § 45.2002

The following persons are required to report:

• Physicians or surgeons, including physicians in training, osteopaths, optometrists, chiropractors, podiatrists, child health associates, medical examiners or coroners, dentists, nurses, or hospital personnel 
• Christian Science practitioners 
• School officials or employees
• Social workers or workers in family care homes or child care centers
• Mental health professionals 

Training Requirements for Mandatory Reporters

Training for mandatory reporters is not addressed in the statutes reviewed.

Reporting by Other Persons
Citation: Ann. Code § 45.2002

All other persons are urged and authorized to report. 

Institutional Responsibility to Report

This issue is not addressed in the statutes reviewed. 

Standards for Making a Report
Citation: Ann. Code § 45.2002

A report is required under the following circumstances:

• A reporter has reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect. 
• A reporter has observed the child being subjected to circumstances or conditions that would result in abuse or neglect. 

Privileged Communications
Citation: Ann. Code § 45.2016

The physician-patient privilege and the spousal privilege are not recognized as grounds for excluding evidence. 

Inclusion of the Reporter's Name in the Report
Citation: Ann. Code § 45.2010

The name, address, and occupation of the person making the report must be included in the report. 

Disclosure of the Reporter's Identity
Citation: Ann. Code § 45.2027

The identity of the reporter is not released to the subject of the report if that release would be detrimental to the safety or interests of the reporter.