Important Information
Dear Patient
Covid 19 is affecting all our lives in a way we could not have contemplated even 2 weeks ago. I have delayed writing to you in relation to any change in arrangements at the Practice simply because things are changing daily and at times hourly.
As of today, Sunday 22 March ALL practices in the Riverdale Healthcare Group, including Alpha and Vitality practices, Archway, Eston, Framwellgate, Pelaw and Hebburn are moving to see patients for Emergency treatment only.
PLEASE DO NOT ATTEND THE PRACTICE IF YOU HAD OR HAVE SYMPTOMS OF COVID 19. If you do, you will be asked to leave immediately
NHS Commissioners, our regulator and the Chief Dental Officer still only advise a reduction in the number of patients we see and to not provide certain treatments. However our Professional body, the British Dental Association (BDA) backs the position we are adopting.
I hope you can understand our decision as we support social distancing for our teams and our patients.
All appointments are now cancelled until further notice.
Please contact the practice if:-
1) You require emergency treatment
2) You need advice or reassurance
3) You need a treatment completing that is vital for function, such as a denture fit – your original appointment will be cancelled but we will try to accommodate completing your treatment by arrangement.
4) Separate arrangements are being made on a case by case basis for Orthodontic and Implant patients and you will be contacted directly by the practice.
Our senior dental team will be available to give telephone advice if your query cannot be managed by our reception team – you will be called back as soon as possible.
In the interests of safety, OUR DOOR WILL BE LOCKED – PLEASE RING THE PRACTICE FOR ADVICE OR AN APPOINTMENT
We are working to keep our team together and will do all we can continue your treatment when this situation is over.
In the meantime please follow Government advice on social distancing.
Do stay safe and my very best wishes to you and your family in these difficult times
Ian A Gordon BDS MFGDP
Managing Director Alpha Vitality Group
Riverdale Healthcare
