March 16, 2020 KEEPING YOU INFORMED
FOR YOUR DENTAL AND OVER ALL HEALTH:
COVID-19 (coronavirus)
We are living in unprecedented times. With the on-going spread of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) and the crazy speed at which things are changing everywhere, we are adapting our dental practice to continue to meet the needs of our patients, as well as comply with directives from healthcare authorities and our governor. Everyone here at the Merker McAllister Dental Office is staying informed and we want to keep you informed. We are so thankful for the knowledgeable folks who are keeping pace with and trying to get ahead of this pandemic from every angle. The impact is reaching far beyond just healthcare. All of their efforts are helping us plan and prepare to stay healthy. Some people have likened what’s happening to a Level 3 snow emergency. Some folks are comparing the situation to that of World War II, when everyone supported and made sacrifices, large and small, for the good of the whole, with a confidence that there would be an end with restoration to follow. Our doctors and staff continue to make caring for patients a top priority. Stringent infection control practices have always been part of that care. We are taking every precaution with additional screening for symptoms, travel histories, and keeping our waiting area disinfected.
Some dental offices have closed temporarily, some are open for emergencies. Both of these are options at this point. Dr. Dan and Dr. Brian have decided, after much prayer, and recommendations from the state dental board to keep our doors and phone lines open. However, for at least the next two weeks, we will only appoint patients for emergency or urgent care. Our goal is to minimize exposure to the virus for our patients and staff, but also to do our part in making sure that personal protective equipment (PPE) remains available for healthcare workers caring for the critically ill.
If you have a dental emergency, please call right away for an appointment. If you need other dental care or treatment, such as cleaning and check up, please call the office to be scheduled at a later date. If you are unsure of what you need, call our office and one of our professional staff will help you determine the best time for an appointment. For your added safety and convenience, please feel free to make any account payments with your credit card over the phone. 740.453.0731
As with any of you reading this, we wish that we didn’t have to make changes, but illness is never convenient for anyone. Our position will not be one of fear, but of flexibility. Although circumstances may be changing day to day, we believe in and serve a God who never changes. He is always good, always cares and always provides for us. His desire is to be invited into our circumstances, be it a pandemic or any crisis, to bring peace and hope. Jesus says in John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
May you find that peace and hope. Thank you for your continued trust in the doctors and staff of Merker McAllister Dental Office.