The cost of a dentist visit will rise markedly as the Greek Ministry of Health requires a negative Covid-19 test for both vaccinated and unvaccinated patients.
The measure will also be applied to those accompanying the patient to the dentist.
Vaccinated patients and accompanying persons will have to show a negative rapid test result – 10 euros, and unvaccinated patients – a negative molecular PCR test – 60 euros.
According to a ministry decree published in the Official Government Gazette on September 12, 2021, the following documents apply to visits to hospitals, clinics, doctors, diagnostic centers and rehabilitation centers.
Patients who go to a public or private medical facility for examination are not subject to laboratory testing for covid-19. Patients who go to a public or private healthcare facility for an invasive examination or test that uses their breath are subject to laboratory testing using a rapid test within 48 hours of the examination. Fully vaccinated health workers undergo a rapid test within 48 hours before entering a public or private facility.
Unvaccinated patients undergo molecular testing (PCR) within 48 hours prior to admission to a public or private facility.
How reportedly Konstantinos Kogias, President of Thessaloniki Dental Association, has confirmed the changes and requirements for the Covid test.
Speaking to Radio Thessaloniki, he said that according to the new instructions, on the first visit, that is, without having to do any work, no tests are required.
However, if it is determined that the patient needs to perform work that requires the use of medical equipment, such as a pump that draws water or air, and which may be contaminated with body fluids, the vaccinated person must also undergo a negative rapid test.
Kugias said that when a tooth is removed, an aerosol is not generated, unlike ultrasonic cleaning. In any case, it is the dentist who will indicate to the patient whether an express test is needed.
It is reported that The new requirements have caught the Hellenic Federation of Dentists by surprise, and so far no announcement has been made.
However, the Athens Medical Association has sent a letter to Health Minister Thanos Pleuris asking to change the Covid testing requirements. Letter refers mainly to vaccinated accompanying persons, indicating that it cannot be performed, giving an example of the fact that “a mother with a sick child cannot enter the doctor’s office, because she did not check for the Rapid test and the same most for vaccinated persons accompanying elderly patients ”.
PS I have no idea what they thought in the Ministry of Health when they made this decision … As in other things and in other similar cases.
Photo courtesy of ru.depositphotos.com
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