Covid-19 – State of the school – May 2020 (2) update

Dear Students,

The post-COVID-19 plan to re-open the School of Dentistry has been challenged by many factors, including the constantly restrictions by Executive Orders. Supply sourcing, work flow ergonomics, social distancing restrictions, and the importance of maintaining a safe environment for our students, faculty and staff all impact our decision making processes. 
We are also committed to providing you the educational experiences that are an important part of your program and the educational tradition of Detroit Mercy graduates.

After reviewing the recent announcement related to Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order and extension of the stay-at-home order below is an updated re-opening plan for the School of Dentistry.

June 1 Class of 2020 to report as scheduled, update of post- COVID 19  – clinical protocols and priority of typodont competency completion.

June 8 Class of 2020 to begin patient care with Class of 2021 students joining the Class of 2020 in the clinic.  DS3 students will have special post COVID-19 clinical protocol training- separate communication will provide the details. DS4 and  DS3 students will follow the specific schedule as directed by Clinical Administration. Specific patient schedules will be provided upon return to campus. UHC will remain closed.  

June 15 DS1 and DS2 students will begin simulation lab courses as scheduled by Dr. Felsenfled and Chitre. Updated schedule to follow.

RDH students to follow the schedule provided by the Dental Hygiene Program Director.

Graduate Students will work with their program directors to coordinate the re-opening of clinical care at the Corktown Campus. 

All plans should prioritize the importance of maintaining a safe environment and everyone must understand that there will be protocols for screening all who enter the building. Masks will be required at all times during your presence in the building. Instruction on infection control protocols will be provided to each group of students individually. I understand that this has been a challenging time and I appreciate the latitude and understanding commensurate with the complexity of the situation.

Mert N. Aksu, D.D.S., J.D., M.H.S.A.Professor and Dean