Lincoln dentist expresses concerns over rushed return to work
A dentist based in Lincoln has expressed concerns over a rushed return to work.
Kapil Sanghi, from West Parade Dental Care, said that he was shocked to hear that practices would be able to reopen from June 8th in England and suggested that dentists had not been given enough warning to prepare. Mr Sanghi also claimed that dentists had been made to feel like the reopening date would be much later, and criticised the chief dental officer, Sara Hurley, for failing to communicate changes earlier.
Mr Sanghi said that the last few months have been incredibly frustrating and distressing for dentists, with many receiving regular calls for patients struggling with pain. Dentists have been desperate for clear guidance and leadership during the lockdown, and Mr Sanghi feels like the authorities have let them down.
Although Kapil agrees with the timing of the reopening, as many dentists were keen to get back to work, he has been left worried and stressed by the sudden announcement. He had hoped that dentists would be given more notice to enable them to plan thoroughly and prepare for what will be a very different experience for practitioners and patients.
Dr Sara Hurley has released guidance and advice is available from health bodies, including NHS England and Public Health England.
Once patients return to West Parade Dental Care, Mr Sanghi is putting measures in place to enhance safety, including wearing additional PPE, asking patients to sanitise their hands and wear masks when in the building and providing protective screens for the reception staff. Despite the rushed return, Kapil is confident that the surgery will be ready to start seeing patients as soon as possible after June 8th.
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