OHIO, USA — Ohio businesses are preparing to open after Governor DeWine gave the approval to do so on May 1.
“We’ve been doing this, we feel like we’re comfortable with what we’re doing,” explains McCormack Dental Group’s Brad McCormack, DDS.
The North Ridgeville practice has been open for emergency procedures since the state shutdown.
Temperatures are being checked, patients are waiting in their cars for appointments and staff are using shields, N95 masks, and gowns for protection. Those protocols will continue.
“I feel confident that we're able to help people, I feel the demand is there right now, the last two weeks our emergencies have been crazy,” he says. “People that have been trying to hold out in the beginning of this can't hold out anymore.”
Not all dentistry will continue on May 1st. Strongsville Dental and Laser Aesthetics is waiting until June.
“It’s social distancing now that’s the new norm and that’s what I believe is keeping me from opening immediately on the first,” explains Dr. Chris Theodorou, DMD.
They’ve ordered equipment to help clean the air including a vacuum type unit that sucks in what comes out of a patient’s mouth. Special laundry detergent has also been ordered as well as WiFi credit card scanners so patients can pay where they are being serviced.
“Our patients aren’t going to be able to sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee and watch TV anymore,” he says.
“It won’t be business as usual but it’s going to be business as usual with new protocols in place.”
Retailers are preparing to open on May 12th.
“We’re all for whatever we need to do with our customers to move forward,” explains Geiger’s Co-Owner Gordon Geiger. There are three locations for the apparel company.
They too will follow social distancing guidelines and add Plexiglas shields at registers.
“After someone tries on apparel or footwear we are going to steam that garment.” he says.
So far, no guidance has been given for bars, restaurants salons and entertainment.