Dear patients,
We are in uncharted territory with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). We understand from CDC reports that 25% of new cases are spread before the patient has the first symptom. While younger patients may have only mild symptoms, it is for the immunocompromised and most vulnerable population that we must act defensively, and proactively, in reducing any possible exposure.
Out of an abundance of caution concerning COVID-19, we have closed the office for the week of March 16-20, 2020.
Beyond March 23, 2020, our business is planning on running as usual, with a few caveats.
If you or someone in your home is sick, please notify us so that we can cancel your appointment for that day. We will be waiving cancellation fees if the circumstances involve illness as we do not want to put our employees in a situation that would put them at possible risk.
If an employee is sick, we are encouraging them to stay home and not return to work until they are symptom free for at least 24 hours, and to follow all CDC and NCDHHS protocols.
Our employees continue to utilize universal precaution procedures with best hand hygiene practices, including proper hand-washing technique prior to every patient interaction. Our all-purpose cleaner will clean and sanitize surfaces. We have added air filters in each patient treatment room.
We have also added the protocol of asking you to text us when you have arrived for your confirmed appointment. We will then text you when the office is ready for your visit to begin. This allows us to keep the waiting room from being occupied, thus reducing patient-to-patient interactions.
As always if you have any particular concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to reach out, we are happy to be of service.
Our best practice right now is using preventive measures and good communication with the community that we serve.
Best,
Elizabeth Caughey DDS