Due to COVID , we discussed how to safely treat patients and simultaneously provide a safe environment to everyone in the York Expo Center . We decided to canvass the patients in line and ask each if they had any symptoms or recent exposure prior to entering . We had on site rapid tests if needed . Everyone was required to wear a mask , whether a patient or volunteer . In the treatment area we had eight-foot plastic sheets 100 feet long , separating tables and rows to minimize aerosol migration . Everyone felt safe and there was minimal disruption to our normal pattern .
Most of us think of dental care as our primary goal during these events , but our medical triage department always finds something , and this year was no exception . We had a 37-yearold female come through Medical Triage , Friday June 10 . Her blood pressure was elevated and her blood sugar was 583 . She reported a history of diabetic ketoacidosis ( DKA ), which is a serious complication of diabetes that can be life-threatening . The medical team spoke with the patient at length about going to the ER and explained that we were unable to tell if she was in DKA without additional lab work . The patient refused , but agreed to go to the hospital once she got home to Philadelphia . On Saturday , June 11 , we received report that she did go to the ER and was admitted to the hospital in DKA and had elevated troponin levels indicating a silent myocardial infarction ( heart attack ). Our mission helped this young lady and we may have prevented a stroke or another heart attack or even death ! We need to remember that we are health care providers as well as dentists .
Despite our smaller venue , 505 volunteers did manage to see more than 700 patients in 2 days and provide over $ 560,000 in donated services . York was a great community and wonderful place to be this past June . Thanks again to all that helped and please keep us in mind for 2023 when we return to the Allentown Fairgrounds on June 2-3 , 2023 . See you then !
26 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2022 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL