It has been 6 months since our last update and although it has been a really challenging time, Cornerways is still alive and kicking!
As we slowly and cautiously emerge from lockdown and reflect on our current situation we must firstly thank all our patients for their cooperation, understanding and encouragement. We would not be able to function the way we do without the full backing and support of our patients. Many thanks.
However, we do not believe that now is the time to be complacent. Infection numbers are still high, thanks to the new delta variant, and although our vaccination program has been phenomenal, we believe that relaxing any of our protocols here at Cornerways would be too risky for ourselves and for our patients.
As mentioned in my previous update pre appointment health screening will be essential. Even if you have been fully vaccinated or regularly undergo lateral flow testing, this is an extra layer of protection for everyone. Your health screening questionnaire and medical history updates are sent to you in your appointment reminders either by text or e mail. By doing these online certainly makes things a lot easier for us and streamlines your journey through the practice.
We will continue to check temperatures when you arrive, hands must be decontaminated and social distancing within the common areas of the practice will be enforced.
We will still maintain our high level of PPE when performing dental procedures here in the practice and we will still stick rigidly to our infection control protocols. This is not only to protect ourselves but also to protect our patients.
Hygienst and staff issues
In August we anticipate some disruption to the practice as Suzanne will be taking time off for a surgical procedure. Those of you who have appointments booked with Suzanne in August will have your appointments moved to our locum hygienist or one of our other hygienists and possibly on a different day. If you specifically still want to see Suzanne then please let us know and we will book you in as soon as she returns. Mary-Lou is still recovering from her surgery and is only scheduled to return to work at the end of August. In the meantime, Alison and Gayle will still be in attendance on their allotted days.
Katy, our receptionist/dental nurse, will be taking time off as well in August for jury service for an, as yet, undetermined period of time.
Road works
We have received notification that there will be road works in Water Lane commencing end of July. Apparently, they will be in place for several weeks. Please be aware that this will certainly impact on the traffic in and out of the village and on your journey times to the practice. Kindly allow for sufficient time for your journey as if you are too late for your appointment, we may not be able to see you.
Ongoing Education
Thanks to Louise Yeates from Embrace DNT who provided the team with an update on Basic Life Support in May. This is a key element to any dental practice as we all need to know what we should be doing when there is a medical emergency.
Later this month, Louise will be updating us on current Infection Control Protocols which in this current climate will take on far greater relevance than ever before.
For now, follow the guidance, stay safe.
Regards,
The Cornerways Team