A Message from ODA President Dr. Sharon Parsons
Well, here we go. The next phase. If you are anything like me, you may have a multitude of emotions running through you right now-joy, fear, anxiety, uncertainty, etc. Each of you needs to open your office only when you are ready. For me, personally, it will probably be May 11. I just spoke with a dentist last evening who is waiting until June, and another that is opening today. The important thing is that we have everything necessary to not only serve our patients, but to keep them, ourselves and our staff safe. Haste is not necessarily a virtue.
I beseech you all to familiarize yourselves with the Ohio State Dental Board Guidelines for Opening of Dental Offices including the links that are provided with additional information. It is imperative to follow these. Last Thursday, the ODA hosted two webinars that were very informative. If you missed them, the ODA has posted them for viewing. Click here to view “What’s Next: Practicing Dentistry After COVID-19” and click here to view “Getting Back to Practice.”
When all of this started and our offices were shuttered for all but emergencies, I stated that times such as these tend to bring out the best and the worst in people. Some staff members are worried. Some are airing that worry on various media outlets. Now, more than ever, is the time for you to shine. It is not the time for schoolyard retorts. I understand that you may feel angst about all that is happening and it is never pleasant to feel as if you have been attacked. I, personally, plan to take the high road in all of this. I will lead both the ODA and my team by example. I will respond to criticism or questions with facts, not emotion.
You are the leaders of your teams. It is your responsibility to not only keep them safe, but to set the tone for your office. I have promised to care for my patients and I intend to do just that. BUT, I also took an oath to do no harm, so I will do all in my power to do my job while keeping staff and patients safe. Our patients, our staff and the community at large are watching us now. This is the time to rise up and be our best selves.
Sincerely,
Sharon K. Parsons, DDS
President
Ohio Dental Association
