A Michigan dentist discussed staffing challenges amid the pandemic, Southwest Michigan's Second Wave reports.
David Crandell, DDS, who has been practicing dentistry for about 42 years, is currently only treating emergency patients. Dr. Crandell said since closing his office to routine dental care, most employees have filed for short-term unemployment.
"My office manager continues to work part-time to attend to the phones and mail," Dr. Crandell continued. "Our hygiene schedule is completely backed up with nowhere to schedule our patients going forward. And although our patients are extremely understanding of the situation, I expect that we will work extra hours for a while to get these patients seen."
The dentist said he is concerned that if patients lose their jobs and incomes are limited, dentistry may not be seen as a priority. However, he believes if the economy is back up in May, the damage won't be as bad.