COVID-19 Updates: ADA interim guidance on PPE, updated ESD website/webinars and more.
ADA Interim Guidance on PPE
As of April 20, the Governor’s restrictions on non-urgent medical and dental procedures still remain in effect. However, as certain states remove restrictions on non-urgent care, the ADA released a statement addressing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The ADA believes dentists should exercise professional judgment and carefully consider the availability of appropriate PPE to minimize risk of virus transmission. The ADA is communicating with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), other federal agencies, and relevant organizations to advocate that dentists, as essential healthcare workers, are prioritized for PPE.
The ADA has developed interim guidance on the PPE recommended in order to practice during the COVID-19 pandemic and minimize the risk of virus transmission. Additional guidance documents will be issued regarding protocols for office and treatment procedures.
Interim Mask and Face Shield Guidelines
Understanding Mask Types
New Employment Security Department (ESD) Website & Webinars
This weekend, ESD made several changes to its website to help people navigate newly available unemployment benefits. There are now new details specifically for people who:
ESD will be offering several repeat webinars this week that will serve as an instructional guide to unemployment insurance.
View Webinar Schedule
COVID-19 Economic Impact on Dental Practices
To better understand the impact of COVID-19 on U.S. dental practices, the ADA Health Policy Institute has initiated a biweekly poll on economic conditions during the pandemic. The poll aims to quantify the magnitude of the pandemic's impact on dental practices over time.
If you are a U.S. dentist and would like to join this panel, you are welcome to participate.
Sign Up for the Poll
Please continue to check wsda.org/COVID-19 and its Clinical Guidance and Business Impacts pages for additional resources and updates.
Sincerely,
Dr. Dennis Bradshaw
WSDA President