Hello Valued Patients,
As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) begins to have an increased impact on our communities, we feel it’s important to connect directly with you to share more about the steps we’re taking to help keep you, our employees and our community safe and healthy.
In order to minimize risk of potential spread of ANY bacteria or viral communication, we are continuing to develop updated policies and procedures. These will be discussed as an ongoing open dialogue to ensure optimal communication among our team members.
Please ask any questions or discuss anything you feel needs further explanation. The health and safety of our patients and employees have always been our top priority.
Our practice continues to protect our patients via state-of-the-art infection control practices. Our team has multiple meetings throughout the day to discuss the current outbreak and to stay abreast of this rapidly evolving situation. Infection control guidelines and protocols are also reviewed and verified between patients. The use of personal protective equipment including masks, gloves, protective eyewear, and gowns has led to better protection for our staff and patients. Our use of disinfectants, up-to-date sterilization practices, dedicated handwashing, and one-time disposable materials also have all helped facilitate safe dental visits for our patients. Our building has also increased the frequency of disinfecting the elevators, entrances, and bathrooms.
All of these practices are informed guidance from the CDC, PHAC and WHO along with guidance from local, state, US government and public health agencies. To our patients, we ask that you wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, throw the tissue in the trash and then wash your hands. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
We ask that upon entering our office you use our hand sanitizer to clean your hands and to keep your phones and personal belongings stored in our reserved area by the door. We also ask that only people with appointments enter the office. If the patient is a minor, it is asked that the guardian wait in the reception area. If you have a ride or come with someone, we ask that they wait in the car or somewhere outside of our office. We ask that anyone who is not feeling well or is showing any of the following symptoms: fever, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose, or sore throat to please reschedule no sooner than 14 days out.
We ask that anyone who has been in contact with another person who is not feeling well or is showing signs of fever, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose, or sore throat to please reschedule no sooner than 14 days out. If you have traveled or had exposure to individuals who have traveled domestically or out of the country in the last 14 days we ask that you reschedule your appointment no sooner than 14 days out.
We appreciate everyone’s attention and understanding.
Jason McDowell
