Message from the President

I am writing to update you on the latest developments regarding the COVID-19 pandemic following on from previous notices.

The NSW Government has announced that changes to the current COVID restrictions will take place the Monday after NSW hits the 70% (aged 16 and over) double-dose vaccination target. The easing of restrictions is expected to come into effect from Monday 11 October 2021. Information about these changes can be found on the NSW Health website.

The announced changes still place limitations on movement in the community and registered dental practitioners should be aware of this.

The Council expects practitioners will continue to use their professional judgement to ensure that the care being provided is appropriate in the circumstances and delivered with correct risk-based precautions including COVID risk assessment. You are also reminded that:

• infection control standards and guidelines must always be adhered to. A number of resources relating to the use of PPE have been developed, and these can be accessed via the NSW Health website and the ADA COVID-19 resource portal.
• you have a professional obligation to always ensure the safety of your patients, staff, and yourselves within the dental practice setting
• you must keep abreast of the latest developments via the NSW Health website and adhere to the advice of our government/NSW Health and, in particular, in relation to your local government area.

Thank you for doing your best to ensure that you are adhering to the Public Health Orders/restrictions and that you are continuing to keep abreast of the latest developments. Noting the rate at which developments are occurring, the Council will not provide updates following every change that is announced.

The Council acknowledges the impact that COVID-19 and the Public Health Orders/restrictions are having on all of us, and that the effects on individual practitioners will differ. If you are experiencing difficulties, it is important that you reach out for help and/or assistance.

Dental Practitioner Support is available for all dental practitioners, students, employers, educators and concerned family and friends. It is a well-being support service funded by the Dental Board of Australia. An experienced team of counsellors will provide confidential and immediate support.

Dental Practitioner Support can be accessed via 24/7 telephone at 1800 377 700 or at dpsupport.org.au

Thank you again for ensuring that our patients, staff, and community remain safe.

Clinical Associate Professor F. Shane Fryer OAM
President, Dental Council of NSW