Dentists to Re-open

The news is in that Dentists are to re-open from 8^th June with just 10 days to prepare.

Many will have had a sleepless night and are busy planning what steps to now take. Your thoughts and questions will include:

• What treatment can we safely provide?
• How do I ensure the premises are safe for patients and staff?
• How do I manage patients’ expectations?
• Can I get enough PPE?
• What do I do about staff members, especially those who are shielding or vulnerable?

We know there is a lot to prepare, so we will be providing a Practice Re-Opening Policy and Procedure in the next few days. This will allow you to feel in control and you can work through this to re-open in a controlled and well led manner.

In the meantime, we recommend you do the following:

1. Update your website and telephone messaging immediately and daily if possible
2. Advise patients that a full service will not resume on 8^th June and you will continue to update them as things change
3. Plan a virtual team meeting to advise on your plans and go through any concerns individuals may have
4. Ask teams for their input and ideas
5. Begin to plan staff rotas based on risk assessments including vulnerable groups and any childcare or caring needs
6. Source PPE

We know how important communication is, so make sure you are communicating more than you think is required with your patients and staff in these changing times.