Important Information Regarding COVID-19 safety practices

• We would like to clarify as much as possible the current regulations regarding the use of face coverings in health care facilities. This specifically includes dental offices.

  The CDC recommendations and CAL-OSHA requirements for infection control call for the use of masks in dental offices. While the CDC ruling may be a recommendation, the OSHA ruling is not. It is a requirement, and the failure to enforce the ruling can result in citations and fines. 

  The requirement stands regardless of vaccination status, the exception being a person who cannot use a mask due to medical or psychological reasons. The requirements in this case call that such a person be isolated and social distanced from other people in the office, including patients and staff.

  To more efficiently accommodate these requirements we ask that office staff be informed prior to the appointment. If not, the appointment may need to be rescheduled. 

  This is not a philosophical argument but a state regulatory infection control requirement. In other word,  it’s not our idea and we may not even agree with it so please do not shoot the messenger! On the other hand, given the rise in Delta variant cases in Butte and surrounding counties and the large number of people who have not been vaccinated it is a prudent precept to follow.

  Best Regards, and to all of our good health!

  Mark G. Womack, DDS

  July 1st, 2021