This page was developed to handle ongoing information regarding COVID-19 as it pertains to patients of the practice and procedures at East Kentucky Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. As the local and global situations are very dynamic, the most up to date information can be provided by our EKOMS office staff.
Regarding COVID-19:
Dr. Chad Street and staff at East Kentucky Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery have been monitoring cases of COVID-19 and following CDC guidelines. Additionally, we receive communication from the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kentucky Dental Board and Kentucky Chamber of Commerce regarding current operation recommendations. Our top priority is the health and well-being of our patients, staff, and community. Therefore, we have implemented protocols that align with recommended guidelines and public health authorities to limit potential spread and exposure.
The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons is recommending outpatient elective surgeries continuing with appropriate patient screening regarding travel, upper respiratory symptoms, or flu-like symptoms in the past 14 days. If you or anyone you have regular contact with has a fever, cough, have recently traveled, and/or been exposed to someone diagnosed with COVID-19, please let our office staff know so we can reschedule your appointment. Currently, a delay of at least 14 days is being recommended.
Additionally, please do not bring any family members with you to your appointment if they are ill or immunocompromised. Remember, the most effective way to prevent the spread of COVID-19, as well as many other illnesses is through proper hygiene and hand washing techniques! Also, remember to cough or sneeze into your elbow and avoid touching your face as much as possible.
Ongoing safety measures:
As always, we remain up to date on CDC, OSHA, federal and state guidelines for infection control. We use universal precautions, which includes the use of masks, gloves, surface barriers, disinfection procedures, and instrument sterilization.
Temporary measures to reduce spread:
Patient and escorts - at this time, we will be limiting the number of patient escorts allowed in the office to 1. This means the patient and their escort will be the only persons permitted in the facility.
Patient waiting room - as a means to reduce your exposure to other patients, we are recommending waiting in your car until your appointment room is ready. You can enter the building to obtain necessary registration paperwork and if you prefer to limit your exposure to other patients, you can complete the paperwork in your car and call us when you are ready.
Formal greetings - Dr. Street usually prefers to greet patients with a smile and a handshake. During this time, an introduction with a wave or nod will have to suffice.
Higher risk categories - if you are in a higher risk category, due to age and/or serious chronic medical conditions, we recommend rescheduling your appointment. This determination will likely be on a case by case basis and can best be handled over the phone.
Please feel free to contact our office should you have further questions about an upcoming appointment.
Sincerely,
Dr Chad C Street and Staff