Statement on COVID-19

Like so many of you, we have spent the last several weeks learning about COVID-19 and its potential impact. We wanted to take a moment to reassure you that even with confirmed cases now in Michigan, our office is taking every possible precaution to keep our patients, employees, and doctors safe. This is our *most* important goal.

We are closely following and monitoring the Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) guidelines and recommendations on the steps that should be taken to help prevent the spread of the virus. To that end, we have reiterated to our employees the importance of proper hand washing technique, and reminded them that they *must* stay home if they feel sick.

Because the situation and advice around COVID-19 is evolving so rapidly, this will also more than likely mean making adjustments to our office routine and schedule. As we plan on acting immediately on new information when it becomes available, this may mean having to cancel or move appointments without as much notice as we would normally give. Please understand any changes that are made will always be with the best interest of our patients and staff in mind, and we appreciate every impacted individual’s understanding in advance.

Regarding infection control, we have always maintained the highest standards when it comes to sterilization and disinfection processes, and we have always utilized cleaning agents that are effective against Coronaviruses. We have also instituted increased cleaning and disinfection efforts in the common areas of our office, and will continue to offer hand sanitizer at the front desk.

As always for this time of year, we ask that you continue to help us in containing the spread of *all* viruses — already important this time of year due to flu season — by rescheduling appointments (without penalty) if you feel unwell.

Even if you do not feel unwell but wish to reschedule an appointment due to other concerns about the spread of COVID-19, please feel free to contact our front desk to do so (again, without penalty).

We know this is a very unsettling and even frightening time for many, and we absolutely understand and respect our patients’ need to make decisions based on their personal and family health situations. We know we wouldn’t be here without you!

Sincerely,

Dr. Shannon Norman-Kotre and staff