In Clinical Leadership & Infection Control

Pennsylvania dentist 'blindsided' by health department’s order to cancel emergency visits

A Pennsylvania dentist says he feels “blindsided” by the health department’s decision to order all dental practices to end emergency visits unless their facility meets certain guidelines, according to local news station WTAJ.

Kyle Dumpert, DDS, of Radiant Dental of Bedford, claims the health department gave him no notice of the new guidelines. The Department of Health issued the guidance on its website March 22.

“You have to have an N95 mask, full mask, and full protection of the face with face and side shields,” Dr. Dumpert told WTAJ. “They are also requiring a negative pressure room with HEPA filtration.”

Dr. Dumpert is now contacting patients to reschedule all appointments. He says it has been difficult as there is no prediction on when regular operations will resume.

“We’re all effectively shut down and basically telling patients to call the Department of Health,” he said.

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