Connecticut dentists were among some of the first in the state to receive the COVID vaccine, as they were part of group 1a, and are classified as essential healthcare workers. These same dentists are now doing their part to help administer the COVID vaccine to the rest of the residents in Connecticut.
The Connecticut State Dental Association (CSDA), urged the Department of Public Health, earlier this fall, to allow dentists to provide COVID vaccinations, explaining that Connecticut dentists and some dental hygienists are able and willing to help in the fight against COVID-19 by administering the vaccine.
“We want to do our part to get the vaccine to the rest of Connecticut,” said Dr. Tam Le, President of the CSDA. “As a dentist we are more than capable to help administer the vaccine.”, This past December, a special order from Dr. Dierdre Gifford, Acting Commissioner of Public Health, expanded the licensed health providers authorized to provide vaccinations to include dentists, with appropriate training.
Dentists and dental hygienist who want to participate in administering the COVID vaccine at health care facilities such as hospitals and community centers, must first complete a training program approved by the Department of Public Health (DPH). It is a two part training, consisting of an online training program, followed by a hands-on training or skills verification training by an approved skills evaluator.
About the Connecticut State Dental Association
The Connecticut State Dental Association (CSDA) has approximately 2,300 members. As the trusted leader and voice for oral health care in Connecticut, the CSDA has advocated for the public's health and promoted the art and science of dentistry since 1864. For more information about the CSDA, or to find a CSDA Member Dentist to make your next dental appointment, visit www.csda.com.
###