DR . ANNA D ' EMILIO
VICE PRESIDENT AND PROGRAM DIRECTOR , ADVANCED EDUCATION IN GENERAL DENTISTRY
There is no doubt that etched into our memories will be the spring / summer 2020 period of the COVID-19 pandemic as it had such a profound effect on each and every one of us professionally , personally , socially and mentally . Having achieved significant outcomes and continued progress , we are still recovering from the collateral damage and prepare for the uncertainty of what is to come during this holiday and winter season .
DR . RHONDA SWITZER-NADASDI WITH FACULTY MEMBER , DR . ZACH ADKINS
DR . BRIAN LAWSON HI-FIVES HIS PATIENT AFTER A GREAT VISIT
NYU LANGONE DENTAL MEDICINE oral health providers have worked longer shifts over the last 8 months , in physically demanding environments — being potentially exposed to COVID-19 on a regular basis . During this public health crisis , communities are relying on them to keep them safe and our colleagues and team members are relying on personal protective equipment ( PPE ) to protect themselves . PPE including gloves , masks , face shields , and gowns are now a new normal in dental centers and clinics . Of the health centers highlighted here , all have mentioned to varying degrees the effects of wearing full PPE for extended periods of time . Some have experienced dizziness , heat exhaustion , difficulty breathing , headaches , fatigue , and decreased visibility , to name a few conditions . Yet , their dedication to their clinics , the program , and their community members is one reason we ’ re honoring them as oral healthcare heroes .
Thank you to the faculty , staff , alumni and residents noted who shared their experiences for this article .
What is certain is the dedication , strength and perseverance demonstrated by our residents , alumni , faculty and staff to overcome adversity and the overwhelming support , care and compassion they provided to one another and to their communities .
Heroes tend to be humble and do not seek accolades because of their innate desire to provide help and accomplish good things ; it ' s the nature of their heart and spirit . I want to take this opportunity to thank all of our members of the AEGD program who are heroes and elevated the heart and spirit of healthcare . During this upcoming holiday season , I give thanks for the AEGD family . May we all continue to remain strong , safe and healthy .
With admiration and gratitude , Dr . Anna D ' Emilio
ISSUE 11 JOURNAL 1 NOVEMBER 2020
11