COVID-19: Updates & Safety Procedures
A Note on Recent CDC & WHO Updates Regarding Elective Dental Treatments
August 2020 — The CDC and WHO recently updated guidelines regarding elective dental treatment, which are focused on very specific groups. In light of these updates, please read on to learn our current recommendations for you, our patients.
The CDC and WHO guidelines specifically state that elective treatment should be delayed if the dental office is unable to follow the current recommended guidelines which include: virtual health screenings, socially-distanced waiting areas, proper healthcare screening, and, most importantly, adequate PPE (personal protective equipment).
At Parkway, we continue to adhere the recommended guidelines, as we have since re-opening. We ask that all patients maintain distance between patients by having everyone wait in their cars until we advise you to come inside. We complete comprehensive healthcare screenings of each patient as they arrive, which includes taking their temperature. We have and use all recommended PPE, including double masks, face shields, gowns, etc.
Much like any health care environment, we have a variety of patients with different needs being treated. If you are a patient who is especially risk-prone, with contributing health factors that would prevent you from seeking or delaying all medical treatment, it may be best to postpone dental care.
Thankfully, there has not been a single COVID-19 cluster in the world linked to a dental office. As dental professionals, we have the most experience dealing with the unique problems associated with the Upper Respiratory Airways, and have been diligent in using universal precautions for over 2 decades. Please rest assured that we have and will continue to protect the health and safety of all of our patients and staff, throughout the pandemic and beyond.
Please Read: Our In-Office Procedures for Minimizing COVID-19 Exposure Risk
As always, our top priority is the safety of our patients, our team, and our community. In order to do this in these troubling times, we have have implemented the following CDC-recommended operating procedures.
- Our Physician and Staff are wearing appropriate personal protective equipment during office hours to safeguard everyone’s health.
- Office staff sanitizes surfaces throughout the office frequently.
- Scheduled patients are to call the office upon arrival, and we ask that they remain in their vehicles until we advise to come inside.
- We ask that family members/guests remain in their vehicles. If you absolutely must have someone accompanying you to assist you with the visit, please limit it to one adult person.
- Every patient will have their temperature taken upon arrival. Any patient who has indicators of possible COVID-19 will immediately be rescheduled to a later date.
- Our practice waiting room and appointment schedule have been configured to increase social distancing for the safety of patients and staff.
- We have designated an entry door and a separate exit door for patients to minimize interaction with others.
- Please bring a mask with you to be worn while waiting for your appointment. Our office will supply a mask for you if needed.
- Please maintain the mandated 6-foot distance, when possible, from all staff and other patients while in the office.
We ask for your patience during this unprecedented era our nation is in. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this time.
If you have a dental issue that is not an emergency, but needs urgent attention, you may also request a Virtual Consultation here.
Be sure to check our Facebook page often to stay up-to-date on the latest information.
